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DIMAPUR — The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Wokha district, observed International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with ADC Wokha, K Furhesie Nyuwi, as the special guest on Monday at Lotha Hoho Ki, Wokha.
Addressing the occasion, Furhesie said that drug abuse is a social problem with long-lasting effects. It has a detrimental impact on society, leading to an increase in crime rates, financial instability, conflicts, and untold emotional pain for every family member.
He noted that for most addicts, who are between the ages of 18 and 35, the loss in terms of human potential is incalculable.
Stressing the strategy to combat abuse effectively, he highlighted the need for supply reduction through community policing, which involves informing enforcement agencies about drug movements, ensuring effective coordination among these agencies, creating awareness among citizens, and conducting mass campaigns with community involvement. He also remarked on the need for more de-addiction centres through committed NGOs.
He further stated that addressing the root causes of drug addiction and implementing effective prevention and treatment programmes are vital for reducing demand and weakening the drug trade.
He called for upholding family values, implementing proper monitoring of schools and colleges, focusing on skilling the youth, and diverting their attention to positive activities as key measures to reduce the drug menace in society. He also appealed for collective efforts in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Assistant Director of the Kripa Foundation, Kychamo P Ezung, speaking on the theme 'The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention,' emphasised the importance of having effective drug policies grounded in science, research, compassion, and full respect for human rights.
He underscored the significance of the day, highlighting its role in raising awareness about the severe consequences of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. He noted that these issues not only destroy lives but also disrupt communities, fuel crime, and weaken economies.
He also said that holistic drug prevention policies need to be developed at the state and district levels to empower youth by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources to say 'no to drugs.' This approach would enable them to become agents of change in their communities, advocating for drug prevention initiatives and amplifying their voices in the conversation.
He urged everyone to amplify efforts to combat the global drug problem, guided by the principles of science, compassion, and solidarity. He called for collective action and a commitment to evidence-based solutions to create a world where individuals are empowered to lead healthy lives.
During the programme, short speeches were also delivered by Additional Superintendent of Police Wokha, K Soriso, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Zuben Kikon, and Senior SDEO Minthunglo Ngullie.