'National Sample Survey Office asked to assess extent of drug abuse in Punjab, Manipur'

NEW DELHI: The government has asked National Sample Survey Office ( NSSO) to carry out an advanced pilot survey in Punjab and Manipur to assess the extent of drug abuse, Rajya Sabha was informed today.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Sudarshan Bhagat, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, also said a pilot survey was conducted by NSSO during March-April 2010 in three cities such as Mumbai, Amritsar and Imphal.

Replying to another question, the Minister said that the ministry implements a Central Sec tor Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse, which provides financial assistance to Non-Governmental Organisations, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies for running Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs).