DC reviews 'Tarang Helpline' for individuals affected by drug addiction

Ludhiana, August 8, 2025: Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain stated that the district administration will start 'Tarang Helpline', a dedicated initiative to provide psychological support, counselling, and livelihood assistance for drug-affected individuals on August 15.

During the visit today in Red Cross Bhawan, DC Jain reviewed the operational setup of the helpline and held discussions with representatives of Dream Ahead, the agency tasked with managing the initiative. He emphasized that the Tarang Helpline will serve as a lifeline for individuals and families affected by drug addiction, providing immediate access to counselling, treatment guidance, and livelihood opportunities.

The Tarang Helpline will act as a single point of contact for individuals seeking help, their families, and informants reporting drug-related concerns. It will guide callers to the nearest Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) Clinic, De-addiction Centre, or Rehabilitation Centre based on their needs. Follow-up calls after seven days will ensure continuous monitoring of treatment progress, with daily reports submitted to a nodal officer from the health department for seamless coordination. The initiative also includes one-on-one and group counselling sessions, with dedicated group counselling every Saturday in Red Cross Bhawan, overseen by health department officials and supported by security and PCR teams to ensure a safe environment. 

Further to support long-term rehabilitation, the helpline will coordinate with the District Bureau of Employment and Enterprises (DBEE) and Punjab Skill Development Mission (PSDM) to provide skill training, job opportunities, and access to self-employment schemes tailored to individuals’ interests and skills. He added that dedicated officers from the health and police departments will ensure streamlined action on medical and drug-related complaints, with Dream Ahead submitting daily reports to nodal officers and weekly feedback to his office. Strict confidentiality of callers’ identities will be maintained to encourage open communication. 

DC Jain reiterated the administration’s commitment to making Ludhiana drug-free, stating that the Tarang Helpline is a vital step toward supporting those in overcoming addiction and rebuilding their lives with dignity.