Dimapur, Dec. 29: Rev. Phowang, pastor of Hongphoi Baptist Church and Rev. Tahlem Evangelist KBBB, formally declared Hongphoi as opium and alcohol free community with a prayer on December 27, during the community level campaign and mass sensitization to eradicate opium, alcohol and child labor at Hongphoi under the theme, “Social transformation”.
The campaign was a culmination of a yearlong intervention, organised for opium and alcohol addicts by World Vision India Mon, in partnership with Hongphoi Baptist Church, village council, students’ union and Citizens’ Forum.
In a press release, coordinator (development facilitation) World Vision India Mon, Temjen Anar, said 62 addicts had formally quit and signed declarations with the village council and students’ union not to use or sale anymore. He informed that 30 percent of the community was addicted to opium and alcohol. He also said school dropouts, early marriage, child labor and unemployment were all ill effects of addiction. “Your investment was on opium and alcohol then, but now you will invest it on your children that will ensure a better living environment for their growth and development,” said Temjen to the addicts.
Peiwang Konyak, secretary of Konyak Literature Board congratulated the individuals for taking the bold decision to quit and urged them to live as responsible citizens henceforth.
Buwang Chief Angh, Daniel; president of Hongphoi Students’ Union, Chingnyi chairman village council and Khamwang Citizen’s president also spoke during the program.
