Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday set December 31, 2028, as the deadline to make Gujarat drug-free, a year ahead of the Centre’s target for eliminating drug abuse across India.
Addressing a public gathering in Ahmedabad, Shah announced a dedicated toll-free helpline, 1033, which will become operational in Gujarat from December 1. Citizens can anonymously report drug sales and consumption through the helpline.
He said informants’ identities would remain confidential and the state government would ensure action on complaints within three hours.
“India has to become drug-free by December 31, 2029. But Gujarat should not wait until 2029. We have to take responsibility for making Gujarat drug-free before December 31, 2028,” Shah said.
He urged residents to report drug-related activities in their neighbourhoods and warned those involved in drug trafficking of strict action and imprisonment.
Shah said the Union Home Ministry was coordinating with the Gujarat Home Department to strengthen the anti-drug campaign. A joint meeting held on Kali Chaudas discussed the implementation of three new criminal laws, Home Department modernisation and measures to eliminate drug abuse.
The minister said government efforts alone could not eliminate drug abuse. He called for active participation from citizens, teachers and parents.
Shah urged teachers to watch for behavioural changes among students, including red eyes, frequent drowsiness and difficulty concentrating. He advised them to inform parents if they noticed such signs.
Shah further stressed the importance of rehabilitation and medical treatment for people struggling with addiction. He appealed to families not to let social stigma prevent them from seeking help.
Shah assured families that the identities of children undergoing treatment would remain confidential. He said a control room for the 1033 helpline would be established before December 1.
He urged residents to work towards making Ahmedabad and Gujarat drug-free before India achieves its national target in 2029.
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