By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 26: The National Cadet Corps (NCC), in collaboration with St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, has launched a significant initiative titled YUVA BHAGIDARI to address the pervasive issue of drug and substance abuse in society. The initiative was unveiled on the International Day Against Drug Abuse, marked annually on June 26.
Under the leadership of the NCC Directorate North Eastern Region, the NCC Group Shillong is spearheading this effort, which aims to involve not only NCC cadets but also children from various schools in the community. This inclusive approach highlights the importance of collective action in spreading awareness and preventing substance abuse.
The Yuva Bhagidari initiative will unfold in three phases — Training, Campaign and Community Outreach. Firstly, selected NCC cadets from St. Anthony’s College will undergo a comprehensive training, which will be conducted in collaboration with the Directorate of Social Welfare, Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, Meghalaya Police, KRIPA, and BIDS, with the aim to equip cadets with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively combat drug abuse. After their training, cadets will lead a campaign within their college premises to engage students and faculty in discussions and activities aimed at raising awareness about drug abuse. In the final phase, trained NCC cadets will extend their efforts to selected schools and communities in Shillong, amplifying the message of prevention and encouraging proactive measures against drug abuse.
The launch event at St. Anthony’s College was attended by dignitaries, officers from Shillong Group, faculty members, and NCC cadets from colleges across Shillong. Notably, Ms. Jessica Lyngdoh, a prominent figure, pledged her support to this noble cause.