The North News
Shimla, December 9
Seventeen voluntary organisations from seven districts in Himachal Pradesh have come together to launch a coordinated public campaign against rising drug abuse in the state. The groups have united under the banner of Sanjeevani – A Group of NGOs to support the state’s ongoing push for a “Chitta-free Himachal”.
At a press briefing in Shimla, Sanjeevani president Mahendra Dharmani said a detailed action plan had been prepared following a recent workshop attended by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, who issued key guidelines for strengthening anti-drug efforts.
Dharmani said the NGOs would now conduct awareness activities in every district, working with local organisations, youth groups and community bodies to build a larger, state-wide movement against Chitta. The initiative aims to complement efforts by the government, administration and civil society.
However, he noted that gaps in coordination among departments and delays in action were weakening the fight against drug trafficking. “There is an urgent need for widespread public awareness,” Dharmani said, adding that voluntary groups were best positioned to lead outreach at the community level, while government agencies must “step up their efforts”.
The Sanjeevani group said its campaign would focus on sustained public mobilisation, education, and community participation across Himachal Pradesh.
