IN NEWS:
The Kullu district administration has brought pride to Himachal Pradesh by winning the prestigious SKOCH Award 2024. This recognition is for establishing the state’s first Integrated Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation Centre (IDPRC) for women in Bhuntar in 2022. The award highlights the district's pioneering efforts in tackling the issue of drug addiction among women, a growing concern in the state and beyond.
IDPRC: A Lifeline for Women Addicts
The IDPRC, a 15-bed facility, was initiated by the District Red Cross Society (RCS) as a response to the rising addiction problem among women. It is the only centre in Himachal Pradesh dedicated exclusively to providing comprehensive care for women battling drug addiction.
Key Features of the IDPRC
1. Comprehensive Services
- Identification of addicts.
- Counselling and de-addiction treatment.
- Aftercare and rehabilitation services.
2. Inclusive and Holistic Approach
- Focus on making beneficiaries drug-free, crime-free, and employable.
- Free boarding, lodging, and recreational facilities for patients.
- Emergency referrals and regular medical monitoring.
3. Dedicated All-Women Staff
- Doctors, psychologists, yoga therapists, and counsellors ensure sensitive and professional care.
4. Post-Treatment Support
- Rehabilitation needs assessment.
- Vocational training to aid social reintegration and financial independence.
- Follow-up support to prevent relapse.
Since its establishment, the IDPRC has successfully treated 482 women addicts through outpatient and inpatient programmes. Serious cases are admitted for detoxification, receiving free treatment under the centre’s care.
Impact of the Initiative
The IDPRC has not only provided medical care but also empowered women to lead productive lives. By addressing the social stigma surrounding addiction, the centre has played a pivotal role in:
- Rebuilding Lives: Beneficiaries receive support to reintegrate into society.
- Reducing Crime: Rehabilitation efforts focus on creating employable individuals, reducing drug-related crimes.
- Strengthening Families: Helping women overcome addiction has a ripple effect on their families and communities.
The project, implemented at a cost of ₹1.28 crore, has been co-funded by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the RCS, ensuring sustainability and impact.
About the SKOCH Award
Instituted in 2003, the SKOCH Award is regarded as one of India’s highest civilian honours conferred by an independent organisation. It recognizes exceptional contributions across diverse fields, including governance, social inclusion, financial services, technology, and more.
Significance
The SKOCH Award acknowledges both the extraordinary achievements of individuals and institutions and their impact on socio-economic development. It serves as an independent benchmark for best practices in the country, celebrating efforts often overlooked in mainstream discourse.
Past Achievements
Awardees of the SKOCH Award represent a mix of the mighty and the ordinary, underscoring their role in nation-building. By focusing on themes like digital and financial inclusion, capacity building, and empowerment, the award has inspired countless initiatives aimed at bettering society.
Kullu’s Achievement: An Inspiration for Others
Winning the SKOCH Award 2024 places Kullu’s IDPRC in the spotlight, setting a benchmark for similar initiatives nationwide. The success of the project demonstrates the power of collaborative efforts between government agencies and local organizations like the RCS.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Model
To replicate the success of the IDPRC, stakeholders should focus on:
- Scaling the Initiative: Establishing similar centres in other districts of Himachal Pradesh.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about the importance of rehabilitation and the availability of such facilities.
- Increased Funding: Allocating resources to ensure that more individuals can benefit from free services.
- Policy Support: Strengthening policies that prioritize the rehabilitation of women addicts.
Conclusion
The Kullu administration’s achievement in setting up the IDPRC is a shining example of how local initiatives can address pressing social issues. The SKOCH Award 2024 not only celebrates this success but also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of inclusive and compassionate governance. By continuing to innovate and invest in similar initiatives, Himachal Pradesh can pave the way for a healthier, more empowered society.
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