An awareness programme on the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was held at PM SHRI Government High School, Yangphi, Kiphire, as part of Project SAHYOG 2026. The programme was organised by Akheda Amulung Kiphire in collaboration with IIM Visakhapatnam.
The programme began with an invocation by Ridila Sangtam, GT, followed by a welcome address by Lipiri, AHM. Shitsala W (Inter) led the programme.
The first session, titled “Say No to Drug, Yes to Life”, was led by Col Rajiv Sharma, Commandant of Assam Rifles. He spoke about addiction and its impact on individuals, families and society, noting that addiction can extend beyond substance abuse to unhealthy habits and behaviours. He identified stress, loneliness, frustration and emotional pain as factors that may contribute to addiction, while encouraging students to maintain healthy relationships and care for their mental well-being.
Sharma also explained six stages of recovery: Denial, Awareness, Planning, Action, Relapse and Freedom. He stressed that recovery is gradual and that relapse should be viewed as an opportunity to begin again.
The second session, “Mind Over Substances: How Drugs Change Your Brain”, was conducted by Dr Liilio Phelamai, who explained how drug use affects the brain, health, education and relationships. She highlighted risks including dependence, addiction, poor concentration, declining academic performance, anti-social behaviour, family conflicts, anxiety, depression and withdrawal symptoms.
Phelamai urged students to seek professional help when needed, develop determination, engage in positive activities and participate in community life.
The programme concluded with remarks from Longtili C Sangtam, founder of Akheda Amulung. Thanking the participants, he said, “This awareness programme is to encourage students to understand the dangers of drugs, protect their mental and physical health, and make responsible choices for a healthy and drug-free future.”
