Kohima, 20 September: The Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) awareness and linkage programme was organised by Youth Mission in collaboration with the Tobacco Control Committee of Capital College of Higher Education (CCHE), Kohima, on September 19.
The programme sought to sensitise students on substance use and addiction, their effects on the brain and overall well-being, and the importance of making informed and responsible choices.
Youth Mission Project Coordinator Deto Keyho introduced the programme and outlined the organisation’s work and the objectives of the awareness initiative. In her opening remarks, Tobacco Control Committee Convenor and Assistant Professor Niekhoto Cürhah stressed the need to increase awareness among young people about the harmful effects of substance use and addiction.
Youth Mission Project Director Joseph Nyekha led a session on the “Neuroscience of Addiction”. He explained how addictive substances can affect brain functioning, behaviour, decision-making, relationships and overall well-being. He noted that substances including alcohol can affect the brain’s reward system and dopamine levels, while addiction may contribute to harmful behaviours in pursuit of the substance.
Nyekha stressed that overcoming addiction requires perseverance, support and professional rehabilitation. He also introduced the Youth Mission Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts and its rehabilitation and support services. Informational brochures were distributed to participants.
Youth Mission Counsellor Hemjei Angh administered the NMBA pledge and encouraged students and community members to contribute to preventing substance abuse and building a drug-free society.
The programme also included distribution of Information, Education and Communication materials and strengthened links between CCHE and Youth Mission regarding rehabilitation and support services.
