International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking celebrated in Wokha

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking organized by Wokha District NASHA MUKT Bharat Abhiyan was held with ADC, Wokha, K. Furhesie Nyuwi as special guest on 1st July 2024 at Lotha Hoho Ki, Wokha , informed the DIPR.

Addressing the occasion, Nyuwi said that drug abuse is a social problem that has taken generations away from us, it leads to a detrimental impact on the society, leading to an increase in crime rate besides affecting financial stability and also increases conflicts and causes untold emotional pain to every member of the family. He also said that with most drug addicts being of the producing age between 18 and 35 years, the loss in terms of human potential is incalculable.

Emphasizing on the strategy to effectively combat abuse, the ADC said supply reduction through community policing by informing law enforcement agencies about the movement of drugs, effective coordination between law enforcement agencies, citizen awareness, mass campaign involving community participation, requires more drug treatment centers through committed NGOs.

Nyuwi further said it was essential to address the root causes of drug addiction and implement effective prevention and treatment programs to reduce demand and weaken the drug trade. Let us strengthen family values, ensure proper monitoring of schools and colleges, focus on training the youth and divert their attention towards positive outcomes. These are some of the ways forward to reduce the drug menace in our society, and we have called for everyone to join hands. our fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Speaking on the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Investing in Prevention”, Kripa Foundation Deputy Director Kychamo P Ezung said the day highlights the importance of effective drug policies that must be based on science, research, compassion and full respect for human rights. The significance of World Drug Day lies in its ability to raise awareness of the serious consequences of drug abuse and trafficking. These problems not only destroy lives, but also disrupt communities, fuel crime and weaken economies, Mr Ezung added.

He also said that holistic drug prevention policies need to be developed at the state and district level to empower the youth and equip them with the knowledge, skills and resources to say 'no to drugs' and become agents of change in their communities by advocating for drug prevention initiatives. and amplify their voices in the conversation. Together, let us amplify our efforts to combat the global drug problem, guided by the principles of science, compassion and solidarity through collective action and commitment to evidence-based solutions, and create a world where individuals have the means to lead a healthy life, Deputy Director of Kripa Foundation.

During the program, brief addresses were also delivered by Addl. SP Wokha K. Soriso, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Zuben Kikon and Sr. SDEO Minthunglo Ngullie.