Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 28: The Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, convened a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) today on 28.01.2026, in the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office.
The meeting was primarily held to review the action taken on the decisions and directives issued during the previous NCORD meeting held on 03.11.2025. Detailed discussions were undertaken on various aspects of enforcement and compliance, with a special focus on the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. Concerned departments were instructed to ensure strict implementation of the provisions of the Act and to take appropriate remedial measures wherever gaps were identified.
The meeting also deliberated on the effective utilization and wider dissemination of information regarding MANAS – 1933, the National Narcotics Helpline, as a vital support mechanism for reporting drug-related issues and seeking assistance. Emphasis was laid on increasing public awareness about the helpline to enable timely intervention and support.
Further, the importance of promoting the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free India Campaign) was highlighted. Departments were encouraged to actively participate and take the pledge through the official Government of India portal and strengthen the commitment towards a drug-free society.
Further, the Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to strictly adhere to the provisions of the NDPS Act and related guidelines and to ensure prompt reporting and follow-up of drug-related cases. Regular monitoring, data sharing and periodic review meetings were stressed to assess progress and address emerging challenges.
The Deputy Commissioner also emphasized the need for a coordinated and proactive approach to curb the menace of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Stress was laid on intelligence sharing, timely information flow, and joint operations among enforcement agencies to ensure effective action against drug networks operating within the district.