Pune Police Launch ‘Drug-Free Pune’ Campaign and Mobile App in Massive Public Awareness Drive
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Bibvewadi, 29th April 2026: In a resolute step towards eradicating the narcotics menace, the Pune City Police today organized a massive public awareness campaign titled “Drug-Free Ward, Drug-Free Pune”. Held at the Annabhau Sathe Auditorium in Bibvewadi, the event witnessed the launch of a dedicated mobile app and drew a crowd of over 700 to 750 citizens.
The initiative was organized under the guidance of Pune City Commissioner of Police (CP) Amitesh Kumar, as a joint effort by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Zone-2 and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Wards 20 and 21.
The event was graced by an array of senior police officials and public representatives. Chief Speaker Ganesh Shinde addressed the gathering, alongside dignitaries including Joint Commissioner of Police Ranjankumar Sharma, Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Pankaj Deshmukh, Additional Commissioner of Police (East Regional Division) Manoj Patil, Additional Commissioner of Police (West Regional Division) Rajesh Bansode, and DCP (Zone-2) Milind Mohite.
Representing the PMC were Shrinath Bhimale (Chairman, Standing Committee), along with Rajendra alias Aba Shilimkar, Manasitai Deshpande, Manishatai Chorbele, Prasannajit Vairage, Tanvi Divekar, Gaurav Ghule, and Siddhitai Shilimkar.
The program commenced with CP Amitesh Kumar inaugurating a specially designed mobile awareness vehicle featuring video and poster displays. He also inaugurated a “Drug-Free Ward, Drug-Free Pune” selfie point.
During the event, Additional CP Manoj Patil officially launched the “Drug Free Pune” mobile application. Developed by the Pune Police Commissionerate, the app empowers citizens to easily report information related to the sale, transport, and manufacturing of illicit drugs.
DCP Milind Mohite, who moderated the program, detailed the devastating physical and familial impacts of drug abuse.
In his introductory speech, Standing Committee Chairman Bhimale expressed deep concern over the use of modern technology in the drug trade, which is ensnaring the younger generation. He stressed that eradicating drugs is not solely the responsibility of the police, but the duty of every elected representative and vigilant citizen. “If we do not uproot this menace together, our future generations will not be healthy enough to enjoy the world-class facilities we are building today,” Bhimale warned.
Chief Speaker Ganesh Shinde emphasized the role of the family in combating addiction. “It is the responsibility of every head of the family to monitor their children, communicate with them, and teach them to firmly say ‘no’ to drugs. Building a strong society begins at home,” Shinde noted, urging citizens to keep a strict vigil on destructive elements that disrupt social harmony.
Addressing the audience, CP Amitesh Kumar highlighted the growing disparity between Pune’s expanding population and the available police manpower. He appealed for 100% citizen participation to make the campaign a success, urging people to utilize the “Drug Free Pune” app to securely pass information to the authorities. He assured the public that strict, uncompromising action would be taken against the culprits, reaffirming that the Pune Police force is always ready to serve its citizens.
Brave Cops Felicitated
The event also served as a platform to honor the exceptional bravery of the Pune City Police personnel. CP Amitesh Kumar felicitated four policemen who recently exhibited outstanding courage in saving citizens’ lives and apprehending an armed accused who had opened fire.
The felicitated officers are:
Police Head Constable Raut (Traffic Branch)
Police Constable Anil Shelar
Police Constable Mangde (Warje Police Station)
Police Constable Talware (Chandannagar Police Station)
Each of the four brave policemen was honored with a bouquet and a cash reward of Rs. 25,000.
The successful program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Siddhitai Shilimkar, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, dignitaries, and the citizens for their overwhelming response to the cause.
