Dimapur, June 27 (MExN): International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed in various parts of Nagaland on June 26, with emphasis on the need for mass-based support in tackling the problem.
Mon: According to a press release received here on Monday, Shansham Organization Mon TI and District AIDS prevention Control Unit (DAPCU) Mon jointly organised a programme at Walo Ward, Mon with the support of Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
During the programme, Longyim Tzudir, DPO, DAPCU, Mon shared on the theme ‘Share Drug Facts and Save Lives,’ while short speeches were given by Awok, President, Mon Users Network and Pumen, Finance Secretary, Walo Ward. The programme was followed by Community Based HIV Screening, i/c Shansham Organization, the release stated.
Among others, the programme was attended by Walo ward leaders, Jovial Sporting and Welfare Association (JSWA), Gospel Outreach Ministry, Mon Users Network (MUN), Evergreen Welfare Society, Mon, community members, youth and elders of Walo Ward.
Zunheboto: Addressing the students of the Government Higher Secondary School, Zunheboto Deputy Commissioner Rahul Bhanudas Mali stated that, ‘the ultimate result of drug abuse is death.’
The DC appealed to all the students to take a vow to always keep away from any kinds of intoxicating substances and to always say no to drugs, according to a DIPR report.
Earlier, while delivering the introductory speech on behalf of the medical department, DPO DAPCU Zunheboto, Hokishe Chophy highlighted on the WHO’s recognition of addiction as a disease. ‘A chemically-dependent person not only harms himself but this addiction puts a person to the extent of stealing or any other means to keep himself intoxicated, which affects the family and even ends up being a nuisance in the society as well,’ he said.
In their fight against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the district committee (NCORD), headed by Deputy Commissioner, is initiating awareness programmes in phases, which began on June 24, covering all schools and colleges in the district. In the first phase, the district committee covered ten schools and the remaining schools and colleges shall be covered in the second phase, the DIPR stated, citing a source from the district administration.
Dimapur: At a similar programme in Dimapur, Dr Mhalo Ezung, DCP (HQ) spoke on the history of the event and maintained that all persons over the world should be aware and raise their voices against the problems that drugs pose to society.
As part of the event, Commissioner of Police Rothihu Tetseo flagged off the first All-women two-wheeler rally moving out from CP office to Chümoukedima and back, and a Foot Rally from CP office-City Tower-CP office, a DIPR report informed.
Longleng: A short programme was conducted at Bhumnyü Baptist Church, Bhumnyü village where Dr Imcharenla Longkumer, Dentist, RBSK, SHP, addressed the gathering. Explaining about how drugs that were initially created for the treatment of diseases and illnesses are now being abused, Dr Longkumer gave a brief overview of the various types of drugs and their ill effects.
She highlighted that addiction is an illness that needs treatment and not punishment or discrimination, and ended her note with a statement that “drug abuse is reversible and can be cured with the right help though it is a difficult journey.” It is very difficult to lose some one you care about to drug problem so we should pay attention and seek help, she added.
Painting competition was also organized in order to give a practical education about drug abuse and human trafficking, a press release informed.
The Community Health Centre (CHC) Tamlu organized an awareness programme focussing on adolescents and youths at Tamlu Town Baptist Church.
Dr Banglau Phom, Medical Officer, CHC Tamlu highlighted the burden of drug abuse and illicit trafficking at global level and its link to terrorism, corruption and organized crimes. Dr Phom also gave insights about the ill effects of drug abuse at individual, family and community levels and how it is a big factor for the transmission of diseases like HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis, STI. Emphasis was given on the youths and adolescents to lead a goal oriented and focused lifestyle so as to refrain oneself from distractions and avoid vulnerability to peer pressures, high risk behaviours and drug abuse, the release stated.
DEF Longleng: The District Police Force (DEF) Longleng conducted outreach programmes at various churches under Longleng town during the devotional Sunday service on June 26.
The churches covered under the campaign were Police Baptist Church, Longleng Town Baptist Church, Ao Baptist Church, Lotha Baptist Church, Gorkha Baptist Church, St. Joseph Church, Revival Church, Konyak Baptist Church and Bhumnyü Baptist Church.
According to a DIPR report, the speakers highlighted on negative impacts of drugs abuse in the families and societies and emphasised the need for public awareness and mass-based support from to fight against the menace of drugs in the district.
As part of the campaign, banners and posters were displayed in prominent place and in the church premises.
Testimonies were given by recovering drug addicted persons and skits play on ‘Say no to Drugs’were presented by Sunday School children during the church services.
Meanwhile the Addl SP & APIO, Longleng on behalf of DEF Longleng expressed gratitude and appreciation to various churches, NGOs, CSOs and students bodies for their positive response, cooperation and support towards the campaign against drug menace in the district.
