A meeting of the District Committee for the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, in his office chamber on July 3 to review the district’s efforts in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Chairing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the action taken since the last meeting, including inspections of pharmacies, and urged all concerned departments to strengthen coordinated efforts in addressing drug-related issues in the district.

The Drug Inspector informed the meeting that audits and surveys of pharmacies are being carried out across the district. Inspection of 15 retail pharmacies and five wholesale establishments found them compliant with the prescribed norms. The meeting was informed that Kohima district has seven registered wholesalers and around 70 registered retailers. During inspections, invoices, storage conditions, disposal of expired medicines, availability of Schedule H1 drugs and CCTV records are being verified.

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The Police Department presented the district’s enforcement activities, informing that four persons had been arrested in recent drug-related cases. The department also highlighted the activation of Drug Intervention Programmes (DIPs) in all colonies and ongoing implementation of drug-free zone initiatives. Concern was expressed over the increasing prevalence of drug use among school students, and the need for stronger preventive measures and awareness programmes in educational institutions.

During the discussion, the Deputy Commissioner sought information on available techniques and tools for detecting drugs in schools. The Drug Inspector stated that testing largely depends on the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), where reports often take several months due to limited resources, affecting timely investigation. The meeting also deliberated on the changing methods adopted by drug traffickers and the legal procedures to be followed while acting on credible information.

The School Education Department informed the meeting that students found using drugs are provided counselling, while strict measures are enforced against tobacco sales near educational institutions in accordance with existing regulations. The meeting also discussed the need for suitable drug detection mechanisms and strengthening rehabilitation efforts.