In a unique initiative, Delhi Police have started weekly sessions for its personnel struggling with alcoholism, in which they learn to deal with the problem from those who have beaten the addiction and now working with 'Alcoholics Anonymous'.
"The entire programme, comprising of three stages, was launched one-and-half months ago," said Suman Nalwa DCP and Principal of Police Training School, Dwarka.
So far, six districts have been covered. Experts from 'Alcoholics Anonymous' share their own experience and ways that helped them get rid of the addiction, she said.
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"People feel that alcohol is harming them, their family and social life but do not know how to give it up. Also, many don't know what alcoholism means," Nalwa said.
"The initiative is aimed at helping those struggling with alcoholism and also create awareness among the police force so that they can tackle alcohol-related problems like street violence and domestic disputes in a more effective manner," she said.
The DCP said the sessions held so far have registered good participation and police personnel come out with very revealing questions and information during the interactions.
The whole programme of fighting alcoholism involves three steps. In the first step, the participants are made aware of alcoholism and what it means. In the second and third steps, they and the family members interact with the experts.
Also, those struggling with alcoholism are educated about 12 facts related to alcoholism which help them in getting rid of the problem, Nalwa said.