NCB celebrates 41st Raising Day with anti-drug awareness programme in Agartala

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) celebrated its 41st Raising Day on Monday by organizing a comprehensive awareness programme at Ramthakur College in Agartala.

Established on March 17, 1986, the NCB is the nodal agency for drug law enforcement in the country. Its Agartala Zonal Unit oversees operations across Tripura and Mizoram, working in coordination with central and state agencies, including Tripura Police, to curb drug trafficking through supply and demand reduction strategies.

Marking the occasion, the NCB Agartala Zonal Unit, in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Tripura Police and Ramthakur College, conducted a one-day awareness programme focusing on the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of prevention.

DIG of ANTF, Sanjoy Roy, attended the event as the Chief Guest, while renowned gymnast and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award and Padma Shri awardee Dipa Karmakar graced the programme as the Special Guest. Other dignitaries present included guest speaker Dr. Dipayan Sarkar and SP of ANTF, Shyamananda Sharma. The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Haradhan Saha, Principal of Ramthakur College.

The event commenced with a felicitation ceremony for the guests, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and an inaugural song performed by students. A dance-drama highlighting the ill effects of drug abuse was also presented by the students, drawing attention to the social and psychological consequences of substance misuse.

Speakers at the programme elaborated on various types of drugs, their adverse effects, and the psychological impact of addiction. They urged students to stay away from substance abuse and emphasized the importance of awareness and collective responsibility in tackling the issue. Participants were also informed about the MANAS Helpline (1933), which offers support for mental health and substance abuse-related concerns.

As part of the programme, Assistant Director of NCB Agartala, Ravindra Baghel, administered a pledge against drug abuse, which was taken by all attendees. The event concluded with a vote of thanks after presenting mementos to the distinguished guests.

More than 300 students participated in the programme, making the initiative a significant success.

Reiterating its commitment, the NCB Agartala Zonal Unit emphasized the need for collective efforts to combat narcotics trafficking and called upon citizens, especially the youth, to stand united against drug abuse to ensure a safer and healthier society.