Awareness programme on drug addiction & substance abuse
SHILLONG, Nov 25: The Nongkrem Youth Development Association (NYDA), in collaboration with the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Shillong, organised an ‘Awareness and Education Programme on Drug Addiction and Substance Abuse’ recently. The programme, which was held at the Youth Cultural Centre-cum-Community Hall, Iewpyrsing Nongkrem, was attended by students, youth clubs and social work institutions. During the first session, lectures were delivered by M. Wahlang, Counsellor at New Hope De-addiction Centre, and Shanskhem Marbaniang, a representative from the District Social Welfare Officer’s office, alongside Medalin Lyngdoh from Next Space Organisation. Similarly, the second session featured an interactive lecture by Dr. JK Henry and his team, focusing on the dangers of drug and substance abuse. During the session, speakers emphasised the harmful impact of addiction on individuals, families and the community. The programme was attended by students from Salem Higher Secondary School, Nongkrem Higher Secondary School, Pahsyntiew Memorial Secondary School, Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students from Women’s College, Shillong, local youth clubs, et al. It may be mentioned that the association plans to extend the initiative through a door-to-door campaign, which will continue till November 29, to further disseminate awareness.
WGH programme observes Int’l Day of Older Persons
TURA, Nov 25: The International Day of Older Persons was commemorated at the Multi-Facility Centre in Rongram C&RD Block, Asanang, recently. The programme, organised by the Department of Social Welfare, West Garo Hills, was held under the theme ‘Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide’. Rongram Block Development Officer (BDO) Cherime R Sangma, who was the chief guest, highlighted the significance of recognising the contributions of older persons and addressing the challenges of an ageing population. Urging families, community groups and stakeholders to actively support and uplift the elderly, she encouraged senior citizens to make use of various government schemes and medical facilities available for their welfare. On the other hand, District Social Welfare Officer Madonna T Sangma informed the gathering about the Old Age Pension Scheme for individuals aged 60 and above, noting that many in Garo Hills have yet to avail themselves of this benefit. Representatives from the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Tura, informed attendees about legal aid services for the elderly, while representatives from the Health department outlined free government-provided health services, including screenings for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension cancer. On the occasion, gifts were distributed among the elderly. Free health screenings and check-ups were also organised for the senior citizens.
FIR filed against PWD official, contractors
TURA, Nov 25: An FIR has been filed against a PWD official from South Garo Hills as well as contractors concerned for allegedly not executing work as per the specifications. The FIR was filed by Nokrek Area Development Committee (NADC) joint secretary, Prodip A Sangma, on Monday at Sangknigre Police Station. The FIR named Assistant Executive Engineer, PWD (Roads), Tura North Division and contractors, namely Ram Gopal Harlalka, Gaurav Harlalka and the M/S M D Construction. Sangma, in the FIR, while claiming that various works were not carried out as per the specifications, urged the Police department to take necessary action against all those named as per law.
NGH cops nab trio with drugs
TURA, Nov 25: Police in North Garo Hills have arrested three persons from Assam and seized contraband drugs in the process. According to police, a team belonging to the Rari Police Operational Group Centre (OGC) on Sunday afternoon intercepted a Tata Magic vehicle (AS1S AC 6853) on the suspicion of it carrying contraband items. A search was subsequently conducted during which psychotropic substances, including 10 bags of cough syrup (Phensedyl), containing 10 smaller packs and 25 bottles of 100 ml each were recovered from the vehicle. The contraband items, along with several mobile phones and the vehicle, were subsequently seized, whilst all three occupants of the vehicle were arrested.