International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking being observed today

Today is International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The day is observed to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society. 

On the occasion, President Ram Nath Kovind will present the Fourth National Awards for outstanding services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse to the institutions and individuals in New Delhi today. 

The event is organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. 

State Government Officials, NGOs, National and International organisations working in this field, students from colleges and schools and personnel from Para Military Forces will also



attend the function.

According to the Ministry, an online system for processing of Grant-in-Aid to Voluntary Organizations and Non-Government Organisations started since 2014-15. 

At present, approximately 400 Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCAs) are being run across the country with support from the Ministry. 

About one lakh drug-alcohol addicts are benefited every year under the Scheme. 

A National Toll Free Helpline- 1XXX-XX-0031 has also been launched to assist the alcoholics and drug dependent persons, their family members and community.