Project Maveno launched in Phek to arrest social evils

DIMAPUR — A youth empowerment campaign including self-defence classes, first aid training, anti-drug abuse and cybercrime classes, along with adolescent education, titled ‘Project Maveno: The Warrior’, was launched in Phek by Superintendent of Police Dr. Pritpal Kaur on July 18.

According to an update, the project aims to build a generation of responsible and resilient young individuals equipped to tackle the rising challenges of sexual and child abuse, drug abuse, domestic violence, cybercrime, and other social evils in the district.

Held at Phek Government College, the opening day saw the participation of 60 students. The event also had the presence of Col. Iqbal Singh Dhillon, Commandant 39 Assam Rifles; Jitsiasa, OSC Phek; and Vezovo Rakho, president of Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union.

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Under Project Maveno, students undergo sessions in five key areas: basic self-defence training, including taekwondo, karate, and UAC; volunteerism against drug and intoxicant abuse; adolescence education focusing on protection from sexual and physical abuse, cybercrime, and emergency responses; awareness of basic laws, rights, and duties; and first aid training.

Classes are being conducted by the Phek Police and 39 Assam Rifles, scheduled from 7:30 am to 9:00 am to ensure they do not clash with regular academic or official duties.

The programme is designed to run for two weeks per educational institution, beginning with the college and to be expanded to government schools in the next phase.

The word “Maveno” stands for “the warrior” in the Chakesang language, symbolising the role of youth as defenders—not just of themselves, but also of society—against pressing issues like drug dependency, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) violations, domestic violence, and more. In light of recent disturbing trends in the district, this initiative is timely and much needed.

The launch day saw all participants take a solemn oath to uphold the values taught during the training and to use the knowledge only for good—to protect the vulnerable, assist in emergencies, lead by example, and never misuse the same.