Shimla, September 26: The Himachal Pradesh government is set to launch the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme (ACVS) as part of its ongoing campaign against substance abuse, engaging over 1,000 volunteers across the state.
The initiative follows Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s announcement during the Independence Day function at Sarkaghat in Mandi district. Acting on the directive, the Police Headquarters has forwarded a detailed implementation proposal to the state government.
Under the scheme, volunteers will foster a structured partnership between the police, public, and other stakeholders, strengthening community-based efforts to combat drug abuse. They will spread awareness about the harmful effects of heroin and other narcotics, report suspicious activities, identify hotspots, and alert authorities about offenders through confidential channels. Volunteers will also participate in campaigns such as rallies, street plays, awareness drives, and social media messaging, while connecting affected individuals and families with counseling and rehabilitation centres.
“The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhu, has prioritised the fight against drug abuse over the last two and a half years. Several initiatives have already been implemented, and the new scheme is expected to further strengthen efforts by enhancing ground-level intelligence, raising awareness among youth, improving rehabilitation linkages, and fostering stronger public-police partnerships—all aimed at achieving the vision of a drug-free Himachal Pradesh,” said an official spokesperson.
For safety, volunteers will not be engaged in field identification. Police will ensure strict confidentiality of their identities and provide protection in sensitive cases. A two-day structured training programme will prepare volunteers in NDPS Act basics, police procedures, and community engagement techniques.
Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to combating substance abuse. “Since assuming office, we have declared a war against substance abuse and implemented numerous initiatives. Unlike the previous BJP government, we have enforced the PIT-NDPS Act, seized drug mafia properties worth over ₹42 crore, and made drug testing mandatory in police recruitment. Our government is committed to protecting youth from the menace of chitta and has taken concrete steps over the last two and a half years to achieve this goal,” he said.
