International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed in varying ways across Meghalaya as the state continues to grapple with the spread of drug use and trade in illegal narcotics.
Addressing the state-level observance, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma emphasised that his government is committed to not only enforcement but also to holistic recovery, involving health systems, education, youth engagement and strong community partnerships.
“We cannot look at this as just a law enforcement issue. It is a public health, social and developmental issue. DREAM is our mission to fight this together, as a state, as a people,” he said.
The programme was organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with Meghalaya Police, Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, and the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM).
The event brought together leaders, frontline workers, and communities under the theme ‘Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for All’.
The Chief Minister also outlined the state’s achievements in law enforcement, sharing that in the past three years, the police have seized over Rs 1,000 crore worth of narcotics including heroin, marijuana, opium and crystal meth. He also informed that a total of 1,031 drug cases have been filed and more than 422 have already been charge-sheeted.
According to the Chief Minister specialised units like the ANTF are being further strengthened, and new tools such as drug scanners and trained canine squads are being introduced.
Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh urged communities in places like Cantonment, Mawlai and other vulnerable areas to come together, not just to enforce but to heal.
Adding a clinician’s perspective, Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Pakha Tesia delivered an expert talk on ‘Understanding Addiction: From Triggers to Treatment’. He underscored that addiction is a brain disorder with biological, psychological and social dimensions, and called for integrated care. “Medication stabilises the brain, but counselling, life-skills training and family support complete the recovery circle,” he noted, urging early intervention in schools and the expansion of community-run rehab facilities under DREAM.
One of the most emotional and powerful moments of the programme was the testimony of Isaac Surong, a young recovery champion who shared his journey from childhood substance use to heroin addiction and finally, to healing and purpose. The event also celebrated over 20 ‘Recovery Champions’ who have overcome addiction and now serve as beacons of hope in their communities.
Community champions and grassroots organisations were also honoured for their contributions in prevention, outreach and rehabilitation.
Similar events were held in the different districts, such as West Jaintia Hills, East Jaintia Hills and South West Garo Hills.
In Jowai, a month-long Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan campaign came to an end. Throughout the month, various activities including rallies, marathons, competitions, educational outreach, street play were conducted in collaboration with schools, college and community leaders to engage youth and the public in the fight against substance abuse.
In Sutnga, East Jaintia Hills Deputy COmmissioner Shivansh Awasthi said that the district is doing its bit in tackling the issue mentioning that in the last winter, Winter Camps were organized in around 15 schools of the district featuring participation of over 2,500 students during which students were given awareness not just on the issue of drugs but to engage the mind of the youths in different activities. He also stated that sporting infrastructures including Futsal Grounds are being built as part of the efforts to encourage the youths to engage in sporting activities.
In Ampati, South West Garo Hills DC Hema Nayak emphasised the need to recognise drug abuse as a community challenge, citing the district’s geographic vulnerability to illegal trafficking. Additional Superintendent of Police Sengrikchi N Marak highlighted the far-reaching consequences of drug abuse, including threats to societal safety.
