Peren and Niuland districts marked the 5th anniversary of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan with awareness events stressing collective action against drug abuse.
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DIMAPUR — The district-level committees for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) observed the 5th anniversary of the campaign in Peren and Niuland on November 18.
In Peren, the observance was held at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner with Hiazu Meru, deputy commissioner (DC), Peren, attending the programme as the special guest, according to a DIPR report.
In his address, Hiazu Meru stated that NMBA, translated as the “Drug free India campaign” is a flagship initiative of the government of India launched on August 15, 2020, to address the growing challenge of substance abuse across the country.
Highlighting the gravity of drug-related issues in various parts of India, such as Punjab, the DC underscored the need for a multi-pronged strategy. He said that combating substance abuse cannot be the sole responsibility of government departments but requires the collective involvement of all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, tribal bodies, church institutions, student communities, and youth organisations.
Referring to the context of Nagaland, the DC said that collaboration with the Church is crucial, as it is a vital and influential platform in the state. He added that the vision of the government of India is to achieve a “Nasha Mukt, Sashakt Bharat”—a drug-free and capable India. For rehabilitated individuals, he stressed the need for skill development and capacity building to help them reintegrate into society.
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The DC further highlighted various initiatives undertaken by government departments in Peren district to curb drug misuse. He informed that surprise inspections were recently conducted in pharmacies in the Jalukie valley, during which illegal pharmaceutical drugs were detected in some establishments. Necessary actions were taken, and the licences of the concerned pharmacies have been suspended.
Expressing concern over the increasing challenges faced by the district, Meru said that Peren is already economically and educationally disadvantaged, and the growing problem of drug abuse further aggravates the situation. He cautioned that every household and community would be affected in some way if the issue is not addressed collectively.
During the programme, Hailungding, a member from the Peren Users Network, presented an overview of the substance abuse scenario in Peren district, highlighting emerging challenges, contributing factors, vulnerable groups, community-level concerns, government programmes in Peren district under NMBA and key recommendations or possible strategies to address the issue.
In Niuland, the Social Welfare Department, Niuland, in collaboration with the district administration and District hub for empowerment of women (DHEW), conducted an essay writing competition at the DC conference hall.
Special guest, Vitoka Yepthomi, EAC Niuland, addressing the gathering, urged the students and youths to be the flag bearers in making the state free from drug abuse. He stated that the youths are the future of the country, and so it's vital for them to be actively aware of this growing problem.
He also gave awareness on the types and kinds of drugs that are in circulation in Nagaland and how to actively avoid places and situations which can lead them to drug addiction.
The essay competition, which was open to all students and youths under the Niuland district, was held on the topic "Role of Youths in making Drug-Free India". A total of 16 students participated in the competition.