By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 29: Meghalaya Director General of Police, Idashisha Nongrang, has emphasised the growing societal challenges posed by drug abuse, highlighting its devastating impact on individuals and communities.
She was speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day workshop on Preventive Education and Awareness Generation on Substance Use Disorder, organised by Sankardev College, Shillong, on Friday.
The workshop, jointly organised by the Alumni Committee, Parent-Teacher Committee, Community Outreach and Social Extension Committee, and the IQAC, aimed to educate students, parents, and community leaders about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of preventive measures.
In her address as the chief guest, the DGP underscored the importance of awareness programmes in combating substance abuse and shared real-life examples to encourage students and the community to take a stand against the menace.
The event also featured Mission Director of DREAM Francis G. Kharshiing, who stressed that addiction is a disease, not a moral failure, and called for an end to the stigma surrounding substance use disorder.
Meanwhile,
The valedictory session was attended by Director of Social Welfare department, CD Lyngwa, as the chief guest.
She applauded the efforts of Sankardev College in organising the programme and shared details about various government policies and social sector interventions to combat substance abuse.
The workshop also included technical sessions led by experts, covering different aspects of substance use disorder.
Dr. Rica Lamar, Director of Manbha Foundation, explained addiction as a disease, its causes, withdrawal symptoms, and different types of drugs. Dr. Chayanika Sarma, Psychiatrist at Supercare Hospital, discussed the health and social consequences of drug dependency, including its links to teenage pregnancy. Deputy Superintendent of Police (HQ), Shillong, J. Suting, highlighted the intersection of social media, cybercrime and drug use, including insights into the NDPS Act.
Meanwhile, Barry Leslie Kharmalki, secretary, Meghalaya Users’ Forum, shared his 18-year journey of sobriety, urging youths to stay away from substance abuse, while Jeremaiah Nongrum, president, Meghalaya Users’ Forum, emphasised family support in overcoming addiction.
On the second day, additional technical sessions were attended by parents, community leaders and representatives of NGOs and social organisations.
Dr. Eddie Mukhim, psychiatrist at San-Ker/New Life De-addiction Centre, elaborated on signs and symptoms of addiction, while Eboton Kharkongor, counsellor and soft skill trainer, discussed family issues and the parent-adolescent relationship.
The final session was led by Meban Tariang, KRIPA Foundation, Shillong, who spoke on community mobilisation, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of substance users.
It may be mentioned that 350 students from various educational institutions actively participated in discussions during the workshop.
Other prominent attendees included Padma Shri Theilin Phanbuh, MLCU Vice Chancellor Prof. TK Bamon, women organisations and various NGOs.
