Shillong, Jul 31: Bollywood actor and NorthEast United FC co-owner John Abraham today said that he wants to see the next global football star to emerge from the North East as he urged youngsters to stay away from substance abuse and pursue discipline through sports and fitness.
A drugs awareness programme, organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), was held here today under the theme ‘Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs’. It brought together students, recovering drug users and government officials.
During an interactive session with students, Abraham spoke about the importance of discipline, fitness and sports in steering young people away from drugs. Expressing his affection for Shillong and the North East, he described the region as a “hotbed of football” and said he believes it has the potential to produce world-class footballers.
“I want to see a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast,” Abraham said, while encouraging students to resist peer pressure and lead substance-free lives.
He also thanked the Chief Minister for his support towards the development of sports in the state. With the government’s help, NorthEast United is constructing a football academy in New Shillong that is expected to be ready within the next two years.
Echoing the message, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, Paul Lyngdoh, said that the state is making growing investments in sports and youth development. Referring to the upcoming football academy, the proposed football stadium in Mawkhanu and other youth-focused initiatives, he said Meghalaya is creating opportunities that can help young people realise their potential.
The programme also saw the inauguration of a vehicle provided by the Social Welfare Department with support from the DREAM Mission for the Asha Bhavan Rehabilitation Centre in Tura. The vehicle will be used to strengthen rehabilitation and outreach efforts under the state’s anti-drug campaign.
Several “recovery champions” were felicitated at the event in recognition of their efforts to spread awareness against substance abuse.
Delivering the welcome address, Social Welfare Director Saloni Verma said the programme reflects the government’s continued focus on prevention, treatment and recovery in tackling drug abuse. She highlighted the work being carried out under the DREAM Mission, launched in 2022, and urged young people to draw inspiration from Abraham’s commitment to fitness and healthy living.
The event also featured personal stories from individuals who have overcome addiction. Recovery champion Marvin B Warjri of the Meghalaya Users’ Forum shared his journey of recovery while youth icon and fitness influencer Dapalei Linna Warjri encouraged participants to embrace fitness as a positive alternative to substance abuse through her presentation, “Fit Over Fix.” Vocalist Kitkupar Nongsiej, a finalist at the World Championship of Performing Arts 2026, performed a musical piece promoting hope and resilience.
