Amit Shah Unveils MANAS Portal to Combat Drug Menace

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the MANAS Portal with a toll-free number 1933 for de-addiction and rehabilitation advice, and to share information on drug trafficking. During the 7th NCORD meeting, he also announced initiatives like 'Mission Spandhan' and the establishment of new NCB zonal offices.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the MANAS (Madak Padarth Nisedh Asuchna Kendra) Portal on Thursday, featuring a toll-free number 1933 to provide advice on de-addiction and rehabilitation and to share information regarding drug trafficking. The comprehensive portal includes a web platform, mobile app, and an integration with the UMANG app, allowing citizens to connect anonymously with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) 24x7.

Speaking at the 7th NCORD meeting, Shah unveiled the National Narcotics Helpline 'MANAS', detailing additional initiatives such as the 'Centre of Excellence for Narcotics Control' for capacity-building and 'Mission Spandhan' to raise public awareness about drug issues. Emphasizing coordinated efforts, Shah urged the formation of Joint Coordination Committees at the state level and encouraged central agencies to initiate cases independently. He also highlighted the development of an affordable, indigenous forensic narcotics testing kit by the Forensic Science University.

Expressing gratitude towards the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shah praised the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign and called for greater involvement from various organizations. He announced the establishment of a new NCB zonal office in Srinagar, focusing on drug trafficking along India's northwestern border. The NCB now operates 30 zonal offices and 7 regional offices. The Annual Report of 2023 outlines substantial efforts in drug seizure, financial investigations, and actions under relevant narcotic and money laundering laws. Additionally, the NCB, along with BISAG-N, has developed the 'MAPDRUGS' portal and app to combat illicit cultivation. The meeting saw participation from senior central government officials and representatives from various anti-narcotic agencies and state authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)