Context:
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has invited proposals to establish District De-Addiction Centres (DDACs) in 291 “gap” districts across 30 States and Union Territories. This is part of the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR).
What Are ‘Gap’ Districts?
- Districts without any existing de-addiction infrastructure supported by the Central government.
- These districts currently lack:
- Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs)
- Community-based Peer Led Initiatives (CPLIs)
- Outreach and Drop-in Centres (ODICs)
Features of Proposed DDACs
- Will serve multiple functions: treatment, rehabilitation, awareness, and community-based support.
- Must include:
- Treatment & rehabilitation facilities
- Drop-in centre area
- CPLI space
- Office/admin area
- Capacity: Can house 15 or 30 patients, based on specific government norms.
States with Highest Number of Gap Districts
- Chhattisgarh: 31 of 33 districts
- Bihar: 25
- Madhya Pradesh: 23
- Gujarat: 22
- Arunachal Pradesh: 21
- Uttar Pradesh: 18
- Jharkhand & Punjab: 16 each
- Assam: 10
Who Can Apply?
- Eligible NGOs and start-ups with minimum two years of experience in drug de-addiction services.
- Must submit proposals by June 30, 2025.
Objectives of DDACs
- Conduct awareness programmes for prevention.
- Provide treatment and rehabilitation for substance users.
- Enable community participation through CPLIs.
- Support risk mitigation and early intervention at the district level.
