Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda today launched the Capacity Building Training Programme for Medical and Allied Healthcare Professionals engaged in drug de-addiction services in New Delhi. The initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of healthcare professionals in the prevention, identification, assessment, treatment and management of substance use disorders across the country.

 

Addressing the gathering, Mr Nadda appreciated the comprehensive training programme, which includes both online and offline training for doctors, medical officers, nurses, counsellors and other healthcare professionals. He said the programme would be implemented in phases, in collaboration with regional and national institutions, before being expanded across States and Union Territories.

 

The Union Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving a Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2029, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stressed the need for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach involving various Ministries and Departments. Speaking on the occasion, Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasised the need to protect the country’s youth from substance abuse. She said ensuring that young people remain physically healthy, mentally well and confident is essential to achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

 

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the capacity-building initiative is expected to improve access to quality, evidence-based treatment services and strengthen the national effort towards a drug-free India.