Jhapa launches anti-drug campaign with training for over 150 teachers

Jhapa – In an effort to curb the escalating drug problem in Jhapa, the District Police Office has officially launched the ‘Anti-Drug Campaign in Jhapa’.

The campaign, initiated in collaboration with local governments, was inaugurated by Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki, with special attendance by Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki.

The campaign, which aims to reduce demand, control supply, and minimize harm, will implement five main programs.

Under this initiative, awareness posters and materials will be provided to local representatives for distribution in all schools within the municipalities.

To raise awareness among students, over 150 teachers will be trained to conduct anti-drug classes. The training will cover the identification of early signs of addiction, basic counseling, and the referral system.

Targeting the youth, five friendly football matches will be organized between police and local youth, fostering closeness and facilitating information exchange.

With the support of political parties, social organizations, and civil society, community-level clubs will be formed through 71 police units, aiming to exchange information and honor outstanding clubs.

Superintendent of Police Basundhara Khadka, head of the District Police Office in Jhapa, emphasized that the drug problem can only be mitigated through collaboration among all stakeholders, not just through control measures.

Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki, the chief guest at the program, expressed concern over the severe state of drug addiction in Jhapa, warning that it could affect the country’s future.

He stated, “If the current rate of drug use continues for the next five years, no one will remain untouched, and it will become increasingly difficult to find capable citizens.”

He also mentioned that due to the difficulty for ordinary people to afford private rehabilitation centers, the Nepal Police’s rehabilitation center in Dharan will be operated more effectively with allocated budget from this fiscal year to make it more affordable and result-oriented.

Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki noted that drug abuse and trafficking in Jhapa are so rampant that no parent can be confident their children are not involved.

He stressed the need for timely solutions and advised parents to monitor their children’s activities and friendships closely.

Similarly, Chief District Officer Shivram Gelal described drug addiction as a terrifying disease affecting the entire community and nation.

He stated that while laws are a permanent fixture, only the awareness of individuals, families, and communities can control it.

He praised the District Police Office in Jhapa for this initiative and affirmed that the District Administration Office is always committed to necessary cooperation and support.