The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the theme “Addressing Drug Challenges in Health and Humanitarian Crisis” was observed today at Dong Wahshnong L.P School in Rymbai village, East Jaiñtia Hills District.
The Programme was organized by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer in collaboration with the office of the District Medical and Health Officer, Adolescent Health Clinic, Khliehriat, and the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihood Society, Self Help Groups (SHGs).
District Social Welfare Officer, R. Passah said that the increase in the demand for illegal drugs is because there is a supply, and efforts have been made for demand reduction by conducting awareness programmes and educating the public on the ill effect of substance abuse, and alcoholism on the individual, the family, and the society at large.
She appealed parents and all sections of the society to work together with the government departments and the NGOs in eradicating the menace of drugs for the welfare of the youth in the district.
MCSWA programme manager, R.Patlong spoke on the types of drugs and elaborated on the experimental stage, availability of drugs, peer pressure, addiction stage, etc. She also spoke about the economic and social impact of drug abuse and its consequences on families, education, and discrimination among others.
Sub-Inspector, W. Lato spoke at length about the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. He highlighted the aims and objectives, provisions, and punishments under the act.
Others who also spoke were Daphihi Passah, Adolescent Health Counselor, Khliehriat Civil Hospital, and P.S. Dkhar, Supervisor, Office of the District Social Welfare Officer.
During the programme, prizes were distributed to the winners of the drawing competition. The other highlights of the observation includes a bike rally organized by the office in collaboration with the Tuber Biker’s and Tour Association from Tuber Kmaishnong village to Dienchynrum village and the distribution of pamphlets on drug abuse to the public.
