Limawabang Jamir, Secretary of AHOD, Department of Social Welfare addressing the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking event at the Capital Convention Hall in Kohima on June 26. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 26
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was organised by the Department of Social Welfare (DSW) at the Capital Convention Hall in Kohima, under the global theme, ‘World Drug Problems; Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses’ on June 26.
In his keynote address, Limawabang Jamir, Secretary of AHOD, DSW, acknowledged that despite decades of intervention, drug abuse continues to devastate individuals, families and communities. He identified addiction as a major driver of poor health, family breakdown, crime, lost productivity and social exclusion. Jamir called on the public to reaffirm their commitment to the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
“Let us prove that a vibrant, developed Nagaland, and a Viksit Bharat, is defined by healthy, thriving and drug-free citizens who live with dignity and purpose,” he said. He stressed that a developed India cannot be achieved without a drug-free India.
He urged stakeholders to move forward with fierce determination, local innovation, and strong partnerships, emphasizing that “prevention is possible, treatment works and recovery is absolutely achievable.”
Jamir underscored the need for unwavering commitment from every sector of society in the fight against drug abuse. “Let us support the families who are quietly struggling and the villages striving to protect their future,” he said. He called for replacing paralyzing stigma with active compassion, blind punishment with strategic rehabilitation, and safe indifference with immediate action.
He also stressed the importance of empowering the youth of Nagaland through knowledge, sustainable livelihood opportunities, and genuine hope.
Earlier, Advisor for Social Welfare Wangpang Konyak addressed the gathering while Tosheli Zhimomi Director DSW administered a collective pledge taken under the 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.’
The observance of the day was also marked by panel discussion on “Prevention and early intervention: Reaching youth before drugs do,” “The Hidden Victims: Families and Community affected by Substance Abuse” and “Role of Faith Based, community organizations and government: Building a united front against substance abuse.”
The panelists included Visakhonu Hibo, Dr Sungtimen Jamir, Nunese Sale, Dr Langna Konyak, Ketho Angami, Dr Anshely Sumi, Rev Father Joe Mariadhas, Olemjungla Aier and Vikram M Khalate. K Wango Langsym, Deputy Director, DSW gave concluding remarks.
The programme was chaired by Tosheli Zhimomi, Director, DSW while Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary NBCC invoked God’s blessings. Vote of thanks was proposed by T Neingusalie, Joint Director, DSW.
