Leh, Sept 15: In a furious crack down on drug abuse with robust NCORD Mechanism and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) action plan, the authorities have reported 9 recent drug-related cases, with 19 arrests (14 local, 5 non-local) and three FIRs filed (two in Khaltsi, one in Leh).
This was revealed during the onset of the 31st and 32nd meetings of the District Level Committee under the NCORD Mechanism and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) held in Leh, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Romil Singh Donk on September 15, 2025.
Held at the VC Room of the DC Office, the meetings focused on combating drug trafficking and promoting anti-drug initiatives.
Key discussions included sharing intelligence on drug trafficking trends, monitoring cross-state drug case investigations, enhancing anti-drug awareness in schools and colleges, assessing needs for drug detection equipment, overseeing de-addiction and rehabilitation centers, and reviewing NMBA action points.
DSP Leh, Rishabh Shukla, informed about the reported cases and arrests. Additionally, 18 awareness campaigns have been conducted across schools, police stations, and villages.
DC Leh directed officials to inspect shops and expand youth-targeted outreach programs beyond schools for greater impact.
Block Development Officers shared details of campaigns that included expert lectures, painting competitions, and quiz contests on drug awareness.
Dr Padma Angmo, Psychiatrist at SNM Hospital Leh, highlighted a rise in intravenous (IV) drug user cases, with 20 cases reported — 17 from Leh and 3 from Nubra, many from broken families. She also suggested integrating awareness sessions within the tourism sector.
Stanzin Angmo AE&CO from the Information Department shared that the Ladakh Buddhist Association youth members have been screening films on drug abuse in villages, including Sham Valley, where noticeable positive changes have been observed.
She also emphasized awareness about Dial 14416, Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele MANAS) it is India’s national programme for mental health helpline, which provides 24×7 toll-free tele-counseling across India in multiple languages.
The helpline connects callers with trained counselors, psychologists, and mental health professionals to support those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns.
The District Social Welfare Officer suggested that awareness about Dial 14416 be disseminated through stickers on cars and buses to reach the wider public. Officers also underlined the importance of educating parents, especially those whose children are living in rented accommodations.
The meeting was attended by SSP Leh Shruti Arora;DSP Rishabh Shukla; DSW Officer Leh, CMO Leh and other officers.
