Gujarat Allocates ₹14.90 Crore for De-Addiction Centres in District Hospitals

Gandhinagar, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: The Gujarat government has taken a significant step towards combating substance addiction by approving ₹14.90 crore for the establishment of 15-bed de-addiction centres in all 34 district hospitals. This initiative is part of the state’s broader 'Drug-Free Gujarat' campaign aimed at expanding access to addiction treatment and rehabilitation services. In recent years, substance abuse has become a growing concern in many parts of India, including Gujarat, where various forms of addiction, including alcohol, opioids, and other drugs, have led to severe social and health issues.

On Wednesday, the administrative approval for this expenditure was granted for the 2026-27 financial year under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, as stated in an official announcement from the state government. This funding is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the rising tide of addiction, which has been exacerbated by various socio-economic factors, including unemployment, poverty, and lack of awareness regarding mental health issues.

This initiative aims to bring specialized treatment closer to those in need, allowing individuals affected by substance addiction to access care within their own districts rather than traveling to larger cities for treatment. The geographical barriers often prevent individuals from seeking help, as many may not have the financial means or the ability to travel long distances for treatment. By establishing de-addiction centres in district hospitals, the government hopes to make it easier for people to seek help and receive the necessary care.

Each district hospital will house a 15-bed de-addiction centre that will offer a comprehensive range of services. These services will include scientific detoxification treatment, de-addiction therapy, counselling, mental healthcare, family counselling, and rehabilitation. The holistic approach aims to address not only the physical aspects of addiction but also the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to substance abuse.

The centres will provide both inpatient (IPD) and outpatient (OPD) services. A multidisciplinary team comprising doctors, nurses, counsellors, psychologists, and other trained professionals will deliver integrated care at these facilities. This team-based approach is crucial in ensuring that individuals receive well-rounded treatment that addresses various aspects of their addiction and recovery process.

The government emphasizes that these centres are designed to support individuals recovering from substance addiction through medical treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation, while also alleviating the financial and emotional burden on their families. Substance addiction not only affects the individuals but also has a ripple effect on their families and communities, leading to increased stress, financial strain, and social stigma. By providing accessible treatment options, the government aims to mitigate these effects.

To ensure transparency in the implementation of this project, all necessary equipment for the centres will be procured through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. This move is intended to promote accountability and efficiency in the procurement process, ensuring that the funds allocated for the project are used effectively and transparently.

The project will undergo regular monitoring, social audits, and third-party verification, as outlined in the statement from the government. Such measures are critical in assessing the effectiveness of the de-addiction centres and ensuring that they meet the needs of the community. Regular audits will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that the centres are providing high-quality care.

Officials noted, “The government has focused in recent years not only on taking action against the illegal drug trade but also on strengthening rehabilitation measures for people affected by substance addiction.” This dual approach acknowledges that while combating drug trafficking is essential, it is equally important to provide support and treatment for those already affected by addiction. The establishment of de-addiction centres in every district hospital is intended to reinforce this approach by making treatment and support services more widely available across Gujarat.

“Timely treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation would provide people struggling with addiction with an opportunity to recover while contributing to the state’s broader objective of creating a drug-free society,” officials concluded. This statement reflects the government's commitment to addressing the addiction crisis comprehensively, recognizing that recovery is a process that requires time, resources, and community support.

In addition to the immediate benefits of establishing de-addiction centres, this initiative also has broader implications for public health and social welfare in Gujarat. By investing in mental health and addiction services, the government is taking a proactive stance in addressing a public health crisis that affects not only individuals but also families and communities. Improved access to treatment can lead to better health outcomes, reduced crime rates associated with drug abuse, and a more productive workforce.

Furthermore, the establishment of these centres can also serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges with substance addiction. As Gujarat takes steps to create a drug-free society, it may inspire other regions to implement similar initiatives, fostering a nationwide movement towards better mental health and addiction treatment services.

Overall, the allocation of ₹14.90 crore for de-addiction centres in Gujarat represents a crucial step in the fight against substance addiction. By making treatment more accessible and comprehensive, the state government is not only addressing the immediate needs of those struggling with addiction but also laying the groundwork for a healthier and more resilient society. The success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation, community engagement, and ongoing evaluation of the services offered at these centres.