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MUMBAI, INDIA, July 10 2002: Having failed in its endeavor to reduce addiction to liquor and tobacco-related products through its various programs, the Prohibition Department of the Maharashtra government has now turned to spirituality. The minister concerned, Dr Dashrath Bhande, has directed the district collectors to seek the help of kirtankars and provachankars (those who deliver spiritual discourses through sermons or songs) to popularize de-addiction throughout the state. These de-addiction ambassadors will be given numerous benefits including free travel by the state transport buses for the said purpose. In addition, their efforts will be lauded through block, district and state-level annual awards which includes a citation and US$204 in cash. ”The state has spent a lot of money implementing numerous de-addiction programs but cannot create the right impact. In contrast, mere words uttered by them become an aadesh (order) for the addicts,” said Dr Bhande. ”Their sabhas attract more people than our rallies. Today, all forms of addiction in the state stand at an estimated 70%. This is extremely alarming. After due thought I feel that state policy, however strict, will not help. Only spirituality will,” admitted the minister.

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