GH prog raises awareness against substance abuse
TURA, Nov 5: A one-day awareness programme titled “Empowering Women: Combating Substance Abuse in Meghalaya” was organised by the Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office, Tura, with support from the National Commission for Women, New Delhi. The programme, which took place at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Tura, on Tuesday, was attended by MSCW Vice-Chairperson Semalotha Ch Sangma, who, in her address, expressed the Commission’s concern over rising drug use in the region. She explained that the programme aimed to raise awareness among young students in the district. On the other hand, Circle Inspector Bitching N Marak, West Garo Hills, addressed the issue of substance abuse among women in the state, noting that initial use often starts with alcohol or tobacco and can escalate to drugs like heroin, SP capsules, yaba and cannabis. Associated with the district’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force since 2019, he highlighted the concerning trend of drug use among women and its impact on society. He also shared insights on drug supply routes, pointing out that most drugs reach the area from Shillong and Guwahati, either by bus or private transport, with availability in areas from Doranggre to Mankachar. Marak also mentioned reports from a medical officer indicating that children, as young as nine years old, are using drugs, with a particular rise among children of single parents. He stressed the urgent need for preventive measures and the establishment of rehabilitation centres in Tura.
Urgent repairs ordered for unsafe bridges in EJH
KHLIEHRIAT, Nov 5: Following a report from the Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority, East Jaintia Hills, about bridges along NH-6 posing a threat to the general public, the Project Director of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in Meghalaya has been directed to implement urgent restorative measures. Earlier, the EJH DDMA Chairman had reported that several bridges along NH-6, including those near Umkiang (Wahkoh) and other areas under the Lumshnong C&RD Block, were in poor condition, posing a significant risk to public safety and transportation. Meanwhile, until the completion of the repair, the public, commuters and drivers have been asked to exercise extra caution, follow traffic regulations and avoid unnecessary risks when crossing the bridges in question.
Financial literacy, cleanliness camp reaches 546 villagers
Shillong, Nov 5: Under the Swachhta-Hi-Seva-2024 campaign, Lifetime Solution, in collaboration with Meghalaya Rural Bank and supported by NABARD’s Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF), organised a special financial literacy and cleanliness awareness camp across several districts in the state. This initiative, called “Special Camp-4.0”, took place from October 23 to October 31, and included 13 awareness camps featuring “Nukkad Natak” (street theatre) to engage and educate rural communities. The camp reached a total of 546 villagers and Self-Help Group (SHG) members from Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste backgrounds in the Ri-Bhoi, Eastern West Khasi Hills, and East Khasi Hills districts. Participants gained valuable insights into various central government schemes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Atal Pension Yojana. In addition to financial literacy, the campaign emphasised the importance of community cleanliness. Villagers, SHG members, and Lifetime Solution team members actively participated in a cleaning drive, spreading awareness about hygiene and sanitation as part of the Swachhta-Hi-Seva-2024 Mission Clean India initiative. Lifetime Solution also recognised outstanding contributions during the Nukkad Natak performances by awarding T-shirts and caps to the best performers from village authorities, SHG members, and other villagers. Participants also took a pledge to support the Swachhta-Hi-Seva-2024 mission and continue working towards a cleaner India.
Cleaning drive at Khyndai Lad
SHILLONG, Nov 5: The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, in collaboration with the Shillong Municipal Board and the Meghalaya government will organise a ‘Shramdaan-Cleaning Drive’ on Thursday, as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of cleanliness and environmental stewardship, with a major cleaning drive planned at Khyndai Lad (Police Bazar). The event will feature a public meeting at the OB shopping mall parking lot, followed by the cleaning drive. Beginning at 7:30 am, volunteers, municipal staff, CRPF, BSF, NCC members, shopkeepers, and the general public will participate in the clean-up efforts in Khyndai Lad. Minister of Fisheries and AH & Veterinary, AL Hek, has agreed to attend the event as the chief guest. In recognition of their dedication, several Safai Mitras will also be felicitated during the event. The organisers have urged the public and shopkeepers to participate in ensuring the success of the programme and to promote a cleaner, healthier environment for all.