By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 31: The state government on Friday sought to silence doubters to claim that the Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM), launched more than a year and a half ago, is on the right track for ensuring a drug-free Meghalaya. Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh highlighted several key achievements, including the establishment of a dedicated police team equipped with its own office and advanced technology to combat drug-related issues.
“This is the first time in many years, and the second time since the formation of the MDA 2 government that we have witnessed public incineration of seized drugs,” Lyngdoh stated, emphasising the government’s commitment to tackling the issue.
According to him, the public response to the DREAM has been encouraging. He said there is the active participation of the Mawlai Town Dorbar, as well as the Dorbar Shnongs of Mawbah and Upper Mawprem, which proposed the formation of Village Defence Parties to assist in drug prevention efforts.
Lyngdoh admitted that Meghalaya faces challenges as a transit state for drug trafficking. “This is not like Punjab where drug production and distribution largely originate from within the state. Here, the major suppliers are from outside, and we require strong inter-state cooperations,” he explained.
He noted that a significant portion of the drugs entering Meghalaya comes from international borders, particularly Myanmar. However, he remained optimistic, stating, “With dedication and focus, we have been able to galvanize our efforts, and we are confident of reducing the problem.”
The DREAM has been allocated a budget of Rs 50 crore, and Lyngdoh assured that the government is committed to utilising every rupee effectively in the fight against drugs. While funds are not a constraint, he admitted that the state is facing a shortage of trained professionals to handle de-addiction and rehabilitation programmes.
“The government urgently requires at least 15 trained professionals, and discussions are under way with the Health Department to address this issue,” the minister said.
On allegation that funds meant for the project are being misused by certain groups, he said no official complaints were received.
“If there are specific complaints, we are open to addressing them,” he assured.