Nongpoh, June 27: The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed today at Tamuli Kuchi, Ri Bhoi District with great enthusiasm and active public participation. The programme was jointly organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (My Bharat Ri Bhoi) and All Billy Correlative Development (Ri Bhoi Branch) in collaboration with the District Integrated Strategy for HIV and AIDS (DISHA) and supported by the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS).
The event aimed to create awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and illicit trafficking while encouraging young people to adopt a healthy, responsible, and drug-free lifestyle. The programme commenced with a warm welcome and introduction by Ms. Babylon Lyngdoh, Programme Coordinator of ABCD and Mera Yuva Bharat Ri Bhoi.
This was followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries by Ms. Happiness Syngkli, My Bharat Volunteer, Ri Bhoi. A solemn atmosphere was created with the singing of the National Anthem and Vande Mataram, followed by the welcome address delivered by Ms. Emisha Thabah, My Bharat Volunteer, Ri Bhoi. The audience was then entertained with a special song presented by Ms. Badashisha Kharmyndai, which carried a message of hope and positive living.
The Chief Guest, Shri Himanta Timung, Convener of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, delivered an inspiring address highlighting the increasing threat of drug abuse among youth. He urged young people to stay away from drugs, become ambassadors of change, and actively participate in building a healthy and drug-free society. He emphasized that prevention through awareness, education, and community participation is the most effective way to combat substance abuse.
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A keynote speech was delivered by Ms. Mary Synrem, Programme Manager, DISHA Cluster Nongpoh, MACS, who elaborated on the close relationship between drug abuse, HIV/AIDS transmission, and public health. She stressed the importance of counselling, early intervention, rehabilitation, and community support in addressing substance abuse issues.
The programme also featured a moving testimony by Mr. Elias Syiemlieh, who shared his personal experiences and encouraged participants to make informed and responsible life choices. One of the major highlights of the programme was the Youth Pledge on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, led by Smt. Greenicia Jyrwa, Clinical Service Officer, DISHA Cluster Nongpoh, MACS.
Participants collectively pledged to remain drug-free and to contribute towards creating a healthier and safer society. To encourage creativity and awareness among young people, prizes were distributed to the winners of the Poster Competition on anti-drug awareness.
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The organisers reiterated that the fight against drug abuse requires collective responsibility involving families, educational institutions, government agencies, civil society organisations, and the youth. They urged everyone to continue spreading awareness with the message: “Say No to Drugs – Say Yes to Life.”
