Port Blair, Oct 29: In a strong message of unity and resolve, the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has once again underscored its unwavering commitment to Drugs-Free Islands, bringing all key enforcement and welfare agencies together to strengthen the campaign against narcotics. Reaffirming the steadfast commitment towards achieving Drugs Free Islands, the 19th Meeting of the Andaman & Nicobar Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) was convened today in the Conference Hall of Police Headquarters under the chairpersonship of Sindhu Pillai A, Inspector General of Police (Law & Order/Intelligence) and Chairperson, ANTF, A&N Islands.
The meeting brought together senior representatives from all major stakeholder departments — Health Services, Education, Transport, Forest, Fisheries, Social Welfare, Port, CISF, and the Airport Authority of India — to review ongoing initiatives and chart the road ahead in the collective fight against the drug menace.
A detailed PowerPoint presentation was made by Yogita Sharma, Dy. Superintendent of Police (Narcotics), highlighting the compliance reports from concerned departments on the points discussed in the previous meeting. The deliberations focused on a three-pronged strategy for Supply Reduction, Demand Reduction, and Harm Reduction, with participants exchanging insights and suggesting innovative methods for coordinated enforcement and awareness drives.
Commending the ongoing anti-narcotics efforts across the Islands, IGP Sindhu Pillai stressed the urgent need to intensify vigilance and preventive mechanisms, particularly at entry points, to stop narcotic substances from infiltrating the Islands. She also emphasized the importance of strengthening rehabilitation facilities for those affected by drug abuse, ensuring they receive timely care and reintegration support.
“The Administration remains fully committed to eradicating drugs from our Islands. A collective, community-driven approach is vital to achieving the vision of a safe, healthy, and drugs-free society,” she affirmed.
Meanwhile, the Andaman and Nicobar Police have appealed to all citizens to stay alert and actively support the anti-narcotics drive by reporting any suspicious activity or drug-related information at 03192-234216, 9531856080, or 112. Public cooperation, officials said, continues to be the cornerstone in making the Islands truly free from the scourge of drugs.
