By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 24: The Presbyterian Youth Today International Network (PYTIN) on Saturday organised a peace rally against drug addiction in the state capital, advocating for a drug-free society and promoting a healthier future for the people of Meghalaya.
During the rally, which commenced from Shillong Civil Hospital and culminated at the MUDA entrance in Khyndai Lad, participants were seen carrying placards with messages such as ‘Drug Destroys Dreams – Choose Hope’ and ‘Recovery Is Possible – Believe In Yourself’, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of drug addiction and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
During the rally, PYTIN president and advocate at Supreme Court, Daniel Stone Lyngdoh, expressed concern over the increasing drug addiction problem in Meghalaya, which, he added, was now afflicting rural areas as well.
He also emphasised the importance of unity among all religions to tackle the growing issue.
It may be mentioned that approximately 2.5 lakh people in Meghalaya are struggling with drug addiction, as per a 2019 report by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
To combat this growing menace, the state government had launched the Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) in June 2023.
