Union Minister Nityanand Rai Launches "Prahari Portal" to Combat Drug Abuse in Children

The portal's launch is part of a broader initiative to safeguard children and align with the vision of a "Nasha Mukt Bharat."

In a move to combat drug abuse among children, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai launched the "Prahari Portal" under the Joint Action Plan.

The initiative, aimed at preventing the sale of contraband around schools and raising awareness among students and teachers, marks a major step in the government's efforts to protect the youth from drug and substance abuse.

The "Prahari Portal" is a key component of a comprehensive strategy to create a robust monitoring system for educational institutions.

Designed to prevent the sale of drugs near schools, the portal will facilitate the formation of Prahari Clubs, which will play a crucial role in educating students and teachers about the dangers of drug abuse.

The portal's launch is part of a broader initiative to safeguard children and align with the vision of a "Nasha Mukt Bharat" (Drug-Free India).

About the Joint Action Plan

The launch event, organized by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), included a national review and consultation meeting.

The Joint Action Plan, titled "A War Against Drugs," was introduced to bring about a paradigm shift in preventing drug and substance abuse among children.

This comprehensive plan involves various stakeholders, including agencies, duty bearers, officials, media, and parents, who are expected to play their defined roles in protecting children from drugs.

Representatives from 33 states and UTs participated in the event, sharing their steps and efforts taken under the Joint Action Plan to protect children from drugs.

Commitment to a Drug-Free India

Addressing the gathering, Minister Rai praised the collaborative effort between NCPCR and NCB in developing the Joint Action Plan.

He reiterated PM Narendra Modi's commitment to a drug-free nation and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the youth, who constitute 59% of India's population.

"Our future leaders must be protected from the menace of drugs to ensure the development of a prosperous India," Rai stated.

He also highlighted the government's zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and terrorism, mentioning the empowerment of the Border Security Force (BSF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Assam Rifles to file FIRs against those involved in drug trafficking.

Rai spoke about the comprehensive measures being taken to eradicate the drug trade, including the significant role of the National Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) initiative, launched in 2019, in combating drug abuse.

During the event, 30 district magistrates were honored for their exemplary implementation of the Joint Action Plan. Rai encouraged them to share their successful models and experiences with other districts to ensure effective nationwide action against drugs.

He assured full support from the Home Ministry for NCPCR's efforts in protecting children from drug abuse.

NCPCR chairperson Priyank Kanungo reiterated the commission's commitment to safeguarding the youth from drug abuse. He emphasized that protecting children from drugs is essential to realizing the PM's vision of a developed India.

Kanungo highlighted the collaborative effort in developing the Joint Action Plan, which consolidates existing policies and effective laws to contribute to the PM’s mission for a Drug-Free India.