Nagaland University Kohima Campus conducts Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan programme

DIMAPUR — Nagaland University, Kohima Campus (NUKC) conducted a programme on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), a nationwide campaign addressing substance abuse initiated by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, on Friday at the Ladies Common Room.

In his keynote address, Prof. N Venuh, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NUKC, emphasized the importance of willpower and cautioned against substance abuse, which can deteriorate one's health, the NUKC stated in an update.

The Pro VC also urged the gathering to encourage and support individuals towards healthier living, rather than sidelining them. Additionally, Venuh encouraged the NUKC community to engage in healthy discussions and co-curricular activities that promote socialization and overall well-being.

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He further emphasized the importance of sharing, caring, and helping one another, noting that bottling up emotions and experiences can lead to depression and anxiety issues.

Dr. Takujungla Jamir, CMO (SAG), NUKC, in her opening remark, highlighted the hazardous impact of drug abuse on physical and mental health.

Dr. Jamir underscored the importance of educating and creating awareness whilst also creating a safe support system. She also announced the opening of the anticipated counselling cell at the University Health Centre in collaboration with the Dept. of Psychology.

Student perspectives were shared by Sakilur Rahman, NURSF President, and Micah Diamai from NUSU's CSE department.

Dr. Teisovi Angami, Dept. of Information Technology, chaired the session and the programme ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Arenkala Ao, Dept. of Linguistics.

The event was attended by teaching staff, scholars and students of NUKC.

Earlier, NUKC observed the national ‘Mass pledge against drug abuse’ on August 13, with enthusiastic participation from faculty, scholars, and students.

NMBA programme held at GHS Yachem

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Awareness (NMBA) programme was also held at Government High School, Yachem, Longleng district, on Friday.

The programme was jointly organised by the district administration in collaboration with Longleng District Legal Service Authority and Medical department, a DIPR report stated.

Medical Officer, Yachem, Dr. Visino Nakhro and Deputy Legal Aid Defence Council, Longleng, P Monyei Phom, were the resource persons of the day, a DIPR report stated.

According to Dr. Nakhro, the NMBA aims to combat drug abuse and substance addiction through awareness, prevention, counselling, and treatment, with the ultimate goal of reducing demand and building a healthy, addiction-free India.

She emphasised the importance of youth avoiding negative influences and communities supporting those struggling with addiction, rather than isolating them.

Dr. Nakhro also stated that collective effort, beyond just government initiatives, is crucial to addressing this challenge. Real change starts with individual actions, such as spreading awareness, supporting prevention, and helping create a society where youth are protected from addiction, she added.

P Monyei Phom enlightened the gathering about the services offered by the District Legal Service Authority, focusing on key topics such as the distinction between legal and illegal drugs, drug abuse, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985.

She stated that the responsibility of curbing drug abuse largely rested with the society, as the police and courts could only provide punitive measures. Phom urged everyone to work towards making Longleng a drug-free district.

Ashutosh Samal, AHM at GHS Yachem, delivered the concluding remarks. The programme was chaired by C Tsalimse Sangtam, EAC Yachem.