Srinagar, February 08: In a significant step towards addressing the alarming issue of drug abuse, an Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) was inaugurated at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHAANS), Government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital, Badamwari, under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. The inauguration, conducted via virtual mode, saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar.During the ceremony, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, emphasized the pivotal role of public cooperation in overcoming the drug menace from society. He underscored the objective of ATF, which is to bridge the gap between drug abuse victims and dedicated treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation facilities.The ATF inauguration is part of the ongoing efforts of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment under the National Action Plan For Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). The initiative aims to curb drug demand and provide comprehensive solutions to the complex issue of drug abuse.Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated the ATF through virtual mode, expressing optimism about the positive impact of these centers in eradicating drug abuse from society. He stressed the crucial role of public participation in realizing the vision of a drug-free nation.Addressing the staff of ATF, the Union Minister urged doctors and paramedical staff to consider their work as a noble task. He highlighted the importance of patience and dedication in treating individuals affected by drug abuse.DC Srinagar reiterated that the elimination of the drug menace is a top priority for the government. A multi-pronged rehabilitation, counseling, and guidance policy is being implemented to monitor and address drug abuse effectively. The objectives of ATF include drug preventive education, awareness generation, capacity building, skill development, vocational training, and livelihood support for victims of drug abuse.Following the inauguration, DC Srinagar inspected the Addiction Treatment Facility, assessing the available facilities. He also visited the Department of Clinical Psychology and the Tele-MANAS center, which provides free tele-mental health services to those in need.It is noteworthy that the virtual inauguration marked the opening of 41 addiction treatment facilities (ATFs) across the country, highlighting the national commitment to combatting the widespread issue of drug abuse. The ATF at IMHAANS, Srinagar, is expected to play a crucial role in providing assistance and support to individuals struggling with drug addiction.
