# Orientation Workshop on National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction Held in Kangra
**Kangra, July 30:** The Department of Health & Family Welfare, District Kangra, organized an Orientation Workshop under the **National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR)** on Thursday to strengthen coordinated efforts against substance abuse. The workshop was held under the chairmanship of **Dr. Vivek, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Kangra**, and brought together health officials and stakeholders committed to tackling the growing menace of drug addiction.
Addressing the participants, **Dr. Anita Thakur, Psychiatrist at Zonal Hospital, Dharamshala**, highlighted the alarming rise in substance abuse, particularly among young people. She stressed that prevention remains the most effective strategy and underscored the importance of early identification, timely counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation of affected individuals.
Dr. Thakur emphasized that the fight against drug abuse requires a collaborative approach involving the Health Department, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and community organizations. She called for sustained awareness campaigns and active public participation to build a drug-free society.
In his keynote address, **Dr. Vivek, Chief Medical Officer, Kangra**, described drug addiction as one of the most serious public health and social challenges facing the district. He said that the success of the National Action Plan depends on strengthening awareness initiatives, expanding counselling and de-addiction services, and ensuring effective coordination among all departments and stakeholders.
The workshop focused on key areas including interdepartmental coordination, community awareness, capacity building, early detection and intervention, referral mechanisms, and rehabilitation services. Participants discussed practical strategies to reduce drug demand and improve access to treatment and recovery support.
Speaking on the occasion, **Dr. Anuradha, District Programme Officer**, highlighted the critical role of preventive education and awareness generation in addressing drug and substance addiction. She urged institutions and communities to work together in creating a supportive environment that discourages substance abuse.
**Smt. Yamini Sood, Staff Nurse**, emphasized that families and local communities play a vital role in both preventing substance abuse and supporting the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals struggling with addiction. She encouraged parents, teachers, and community leaders to remain vigilant and actively engage with young people to reduce the risk of addiction.
The Department of Health & Family Welfare reaffirmed its commitment to the effective implementation of the **National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR)** through coordinated action with all concerned departments, institutions, and community partners, with the shared objective of creating a healthier and drug-free Kangra district.