Ludhiana DC appeals to drug-affected individuals to embrace Tarang helpline for rehabilitation and reintegration

Published on: 22 Aug 2025 at 06:03 PM

Published by: PreetiMahajan

The Fact News Service

Ludhiana, August 22

Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain on Friday made a heartfelt appeal to individuals affected by drug addiction to utilize the Tarang Helpline (9779-175050), a transformative initiative launched by the district administration to support recovery and reintegration into mainstream society.

In his video message, DC Jain stated that Tarang: A Wave of New Beginning is a toll-free helpline, operational daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, managed by the District Red Cross Society and District Bureau of Employment & Enterprises (DBEE) in collaboration with Dream Ahead agency. He added that the helpline provides comprehensive support, including psychological counseling, rehabilitation guidance, and livelihood opportunities, ensuring confidentiality and personalized care.

DC Himanshu Jain emphasized that Tarang is a lifeline for those battling addiction. Our goal is to empower every individual with the tools for recovery—through professional counseling, structured rehabilitation, skill development, and employment opportunities, he mentioned and urged those affected to take the first step by calling the helpline and reclaim their place in society as valued contributors.”

The Deputy Commissioner detailed that trained counselors offer motivational counseling, socialization tips, and regular follow-ups, with a structured Standard Operating Procedure ensuring personalized care. Individuals not yet in treatment are referred to the nearest Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) Clinic, while those in treatment are guided to de-addiction or rehabilitation centers.
Further, the helpline assesses callers’ skills and interests, connecting them with training, self-employment, or job placement opportunities through DBEE and other departments. The Individual and group counseling sessions are held every Saturday, monitored by the Civil Surgeon’s Office, with connections to Narcotics Anonymous for peer support. He also added that concerns about drug-related activities can be reported on Yudh Nashya Virudh helpline (9779-100-200), with information discreetly forwarded to police nodal officers.

Jain also highlighted the collaborative efforts behind Tarang, involving the Police Department, Civil Surgeon’s Office, District Red Cross Society, DBEE, Punjab Skill Development Mission (PSDM), and Narcotics Anonymous. “This initiative is a collective commitment to rebuild lives. We are not just offering help; we are offering hope, dignity, and a path to a productive future,” he added. He also called upon the people to spread awareness about Tarang and encourage those in need to dial 9779-175050.