Shimla, Kullu dists most vulnerable to drug menace

Current Context : Shimla and Kullu are the most affected districts in Himachal Pradesh in terms of drug abuse, with the highest cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.​

• Out of 1,218 cases registered in the state this year, Shimla accounts for 187 cases, and Kullu follows with 186 cases.
• Other affected areas include Mandi (149 cases), Bilaspur (125 cases), and Kangra (99 cases).

Government Initiatives to tackle Drug Abuse :

• Sankalp Initiative: Launched by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, this initiative focuses on curbing drug addiction, supporting rehabilitation, and taking strict action against drug traffickers.
• The state is setting up a State-Level Model De-addiction and Rehabilitation Center in Sirmaur’s Kotla Barog to help individuals struggling with substance abuse​
• Nasha Mukti Himachal Abhiyan: This campaign aims to create awareness and reduce drug addiction, focusing on both preventive measures and rehabilitation.