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Chandigarh: Haryana, a state that has long grappled with the scourge of narcotics, has added a new and powerful tool to its arsenal. On 18 July 2024, the Government of India launched the MANAS Helpline (1933), designed to provide swift citizen participation in the battle against drugs. In just a short span, this helpline has emerged as one of Haryana’s most effective initiatives to tackle drug trafficking, consumption, and smuggling networks.
Reaching Every District
Initially connected only to the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB) headquarters, the MANAS helpline’s scope was quickly expanded to all 22 districts of the state. Now, HSNCB operates as the nodal agency, ensuring that any tip-off from a citizen is transmitted instantly to the relevant district enforcement unit. This decentralisation has made the system faster, sharper, and closer to the ground.
Speak Fearlessly, Stay Anonymous
The success of any anti-drug campaign depends on breaking the silence and fear that often surrounds narcotics networks. To address this, the MANAS initiative provides two secure and straightforward reporting channels: the MANAS Helpline at 1933 and the HSNCB Helpline at 90508-91508. Both numbers are operational around the clock, allowing citizens to report drug trafficking, sale, or consumption confidentially. Authorities assure that the identities of informants are kept strictly anonymous. The online portal ncbmanas.gov.in enables citizens to lodge complaints digitally. Reports are automatically routed to the concerned district unit for immediate follow-up action.
Why is MANAS Different? HSNCB Head DGP, OP Singh, describe MANAS as a game-changer in Haryana’s fight against drugs. Unlike traditional complaint systems, the helpline offers four preventive and awareness steps. First, Fast & Direct Access- the information flows directly to enforcement units, eliminating bureaucratic delays. Second, Guaranteed Anonymity- The system ensures that whistle-blowers are never exposed, even in sensitive cases. Third, Immediate Action-Each call or online complaint triggers a response mechanism at the district level. Fourth- Citizen Empowerment: Ordinary people can actively contribute to safeguarding their neighbourhoods, turning the campaign into a people’s movement.
Social & Economic Challenge
Haryana’s drug problem is not just a law-and-order issue but also a socio-economic challenge. In border districts like Sirsa, Fatehabad, and Hisar, drug abuse has deeply impacted rural youth, creating ripple effects in crime, unemployment, and social unrest. With the state heading towards Assembly elections in October 2024, the ruling government has placed the anti-drug campaign at the centre of its governance narrative.
Political observers believe that MANAS, if effectively implemented, could become a showpiece initiative—demonstrating a shift from rhetoric to results. However, opposition leaders are expected to question whether the helpline will lead to sustained action on the ground or remain just another bureaucratic experiment.
Report Drugs – Save Society
According to HSNCB officials, the helpline is not merely a policing tool but a call to collective responsibility. “Winning the fight against drugs requires the active support of every citizen. With MANAS, people now have the courage and the channel to act without fear,” an HSNCB officer explained.
