Himachal CM Sukhu Announces Anti-Chitta Gram Sabhas Across All Panchayats
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made a significant announcement on Tuesday. He stated that anti-chitta gram sabhas will take place in every panchayat of the state on January 21 and 22. Sukhu addressed senior officers during a meeting to outline this initiative.
Key Focus Areas of the Gram Sabhas
The gram sabhas will concentrate on several critical aspects. They will review all chitta-related information available in their areas. A major focus will be the rehabilitation of local youth who struggle with drug addiction. Additionally, each panchayat will conduct detailed mapping of chitta activities to understand the local situation better.
Officers from various government departments will participate as observers in these sabhas. This ensures proper monitoring and support for the process.
Statewide Awareness Campaigns and Sports Tournaments
Sukhu highlighted that statewide awareness campaigns are already underway. These campaigns educate people about the harmful effects of chitta and other psychotropic substances. As part of this effort, the state will organise anti-chitta awareness sports tournaments.
These tournaments will follow a premier league-style format. They will feature kabaddi, cricket, and volleyball matches at block, district, and state levels. Winning teams will receive cash prizes directly from the chief minister. This approach aims to engage youth positively and spread the anti-drug message through sports.
Multi-Pronged Strategy to Combat Drug Trafficking
The chief minister emphasised a comprehensive strategy to curb chitta trafficking and supply. This includes identifying properties owned by smugglers and demolishing them. Sukhu also directed the education department to include chapters on the harmful effects of chitta in school textbooks. This move seeks to raise awareness among students from a young age.
Furthermore, Sukhu instructed that gram panchayat pradhans and panchayat samiti members be included as special invitees in panchayat-level drug de-addiction committees. Farmer Producer Organisations and women's self-help groups, known as mahila mandals, will also play an active role in the campaign against chitta.
This holistic approach combines community involvement, education, sports, and strict action to tackle the drug menace effectively in Himachal Pradesh.
