Shillong, Apr 24: The Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) carried out a series of interventions across the Garo Hills region to strengthen community-led efforts against substance abuse.
On the concluding day today, stakeholders convened at the office of the Superintendent of Police in Tura to discuss ongoing initiatives aimed at combating drug abuse.
Chaired by Mission Director Francis Kharshiing, the meeting was attended by officials and representatives from various government departments and civil society groups. The discussions focused on assessing current interventions and identifying gaps in efforts to address the growing drug crisis.
A major highlight was the emphasis on enhancing grassroots outreach through community-based mechanisms. One innovative strategy introduced was a WhatsApp-based community network designed to connect with village leaders and disseminate essential information regarding rehabilitation services and support systems.
Awareness initiatives such as the “Dream Calendar” and QR code systems were also discussed, improving access to information about rehabilitation centers. Additionally, the meeting underscored the importance of vocational training programs, which equip recovering users with marketable skills.
Officials noted that by focusing on support pathways for rehabilitation and reintegration, they aim to reduce stigma and enhance employment opportunities. As part of future plans, there will be an expansion of detoxification centers to meet the needs of the population.
The meeting ended with a strong call for united efforts among all stakeholders to effectively tackle the drug menace in the Garo Hills region.
