Shillong, Nov 18: Governor Chandrashekhar H Vijayashankar has warned of serious social, economic and law and order problems in the State if drug and substance abuse in Meghalaya is left unaddressed.
The Governor, who inaugurated the celebration of five years of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in Raj Bhavan today, highlighted five main social challenges that require immediate and coordinated attention from the Social Welfare Department for documentation and mass awareness.
“There are five main challenges – Drugs, HIV/AIDS, TB, Cancer and teenage pregnancy.” He said these needs immediate focus.
Vijayashankar said that the impact of drug abuse begins inside the family, spreads across the community, affects the State and nation, and eventually becomes part of a broader global concern. He urged all stakeholders to join hands with the Social Welfare Department to strengthen the fight against substance abuse, stressing the need for a united and compassionate approach focused on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
He also underscored the important role of traditional institutions in Meghalaya, particularly the Dorbar Shnongs, District Councils, Tribal Communities and village councils, in guiding society and protecting community values. He stated that the participation of these institutions is crucial in raising awareness, supporting youth, and building safe neighbourhoods that discourage harmful habits.
The Governor further reinforced the commitment to the mission by administering a solemn anti-drug pledge to all participants. The pledge underscored the role of the youth as the energy of the nation and stressed that change must begin with oneself.
Meanwhile, the Governor also addressed a gathering to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India”, marked as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day).
He stressed on the need for vigilance in safeguarding national integrity, citing threats from within and outside the country.
The Governor said that unity doesn’t signify uniformity, but rather celebration of differences for collective progress. He urged citizens to remain committed to building a stronger, more prosperous India.
