DM Chandni Chandran leads Khowai district to NCPCR award for anti-drug, anti-trafficking initiatives

Agartala, July 1, 2024: In a ceremony held on Sunday, Khowai district was hailed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) as the best performing district in implementing the Joint Action Plan on Child Rights. “Prevention of child drug and substance abuse and illicit trafficking.” The event was organized to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityananda Rai presented the prestigious award to Khowai District Magistrate Chandni Chandran. Expressing his admiration, Rai said, “Khowai district has set a benchmark in the fight against drug addiction and trafficking, displaying exemplary dedication and innovative approaches.”

The ceremony was attended by several notable dignitaries including NCPCR President Priyank Kanungo, Member Secretary Rupali Banerjee Singh and Narcotics Control Bureau Director General Satya Narayan Pradhan. Kanungo praised Khowai’s efforts, saying: “The district’s overall strategy and community involvement have been critical to its success. »

Khowai’s success has been attributed to its exceptional performance in various key areas. The district has excelled in installing CCTV cameras at major medical centres, activating Prabhari Clubs in schools and strict implementation of COTPA. Highlighting the district’s proactive measures, Singh remarked, “Khowai’s multifaceted approach, including technology-based monitoring and educational initiatives, has significantly reduced drug abuse among children.”

Worthy of mention is the innovative programme launched by Chief Minister Prof Manik Saha in November 2023 to prevent child marriage and reintegrate victims into the education system. The programme, called CHESTA (Child Marriage Elimination through Sensitization, Tracking, and Awareness), has been widely appreciated for its inclusive approach. “CHESTA’s comprehensive coverage and stakeholder involvement have been instrumental in reducing human trafficking and supporting affected girls,” Pradhan noted.

Intensified police efforts have also played a crucial role, with seizures of drugs and intoxicants doubling over the past year. This rigorous enforcement has further strengthened Khowai’s position as a leading district in the fight against drug abuse and substance trafficking.

The NCPCR award not only recognizes Khowai's exemplary work, but also sets a standard for other districts to follow in the fight against drugs and human trafficking.