The Union Home Minister announced a 1033 helpline to combat narcotics and urged public cooperation to meet the state target.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Monday called for a collective effort to ensure Gujarat becomes drug-free by December 31, 2028. Speaking at a gathering in Ahmedabad, Shah noted that while the national target to eradicate drugs is December 31, 2029, the state should lead the way.
According to The New Indian Express, Shah announced that a toll-free helpline and control room at 1033 will become operational in Gujarat from December 1, 2026. He promised that authorities would take action within three hours on complaints regarding drug trafficking and consumption, while guaranteeing that the identities of informants would remain confidential.
Shah stated that drug abuse threatens the future of young people by impairing their physical and mental capabilities. He also alleged that proceeds from the drug trade are used to finance terrorist activities within the country.
The Minister appealed to teachers to monitor students for signs of addiction, such as drowsiness or red eyes, and urged parents to seek medical help without shame. He added that rehabilitation centres are being established to assist those recovering from addiction.
During the event, Shah also inaugurated and laid foundation stones for various development projects in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency. These projects, worth over Rs 1,400 crore, include the ISKCON-Sanand Elevated Corridor and housing allotments under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
