Nagaland joined the global observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26, 2025, under the theme “Breaking the Chain: Prevention, Treatment, Recovery for All”, with programmes held across various districts, reflecting a growing consensus among civil society, law enforcement, and the medical community that a balanced, compassionate approach is vital to addressing the state’s drug crisis.
The main event held at the NHAK Auditorium in Kohima, organized by the District Administration in collaboration with Project REST and NHAK, Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem, NCS, delivered a powerful keynote urging for a dual strategy—strengthening law enforcement while expanding rehabilitative services.
“Both are necessary—the carrot and the stick,” Buchem said, citing global examples such as Portugal’s rehab-focused policies and Singapore’s punitive framework. He called for a Nagaland-specific model: “Healing cannot happen without enforcement, and enforcement without support leads nowhere.”
Additional SP (Protocol & Traffic), Z. Tshurhosie Kajiri, presented alarming figures: 116 arrests in 81 drug-related cases were made in Kohima from 2022 to June 2025. “These numbers represent just the tip of the iceberg,” he warned, advocating for community trust-building and viewing addiction as a disease, not a crime.
Legal expert Kezhosano Kikhi, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel, highlighted Section 64A of the NDPS Act, which offers immunity for users who seek rehabilitation. She emphasized the need for clear policy under the NLTP Act and more consistent enforcement of prohibition laws.
Speaking for Ark Foundation, President Ketholelie Angami warned of a “second wave of addiction,” pointing to the spread of substances like ‘Sunflower’ among children as young as 12. He called for exclusive rehabilitation centres for women and urged systemic investment in early prevention, rather than “token campaigns.”
Project REST’s Nodal Officer, Dr. Sungtimen Jamir, detailed the outpatient-based intervention programme launched in 2023, which has since formed an Alcoholics Anonymous group and plans to initiate a Narcotics Anonymous group. “Recovery is not a destination—it’s a continuous journey,” he said.
At Clock Tower, Niuland, the event was organized by the District Administration in collaboration with Niuland Police, Social Welfare Department, and CAD Foundation. Main speaker Limhathung Ezung, Director of CAD Foundation, stressed the need for collaborative action from churches, public leaders, and civil society.
ACP Nokin Longkumer pointed to the state’s porous international borders as a hurdle to enforcement. Dr. Rosemary from CHC Niuland shared that over 120 persons are currently undergoing Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) in the district, but noted challenges in delivering consistent treatment. A recovering user, Aviho Achumi, shared an inspiring message.
Meluri’s program, held at the Town Hall, was organized by the District Administration and Social Welfare Department. DC K Mhathung Tsanglao praised the Müluori Shefü Kügharü and Pochury Students’ Union for their anti-drug efforts and called for collective action.
SDPO Dr T Desela Sangtam and Dr. Kelelo Pradia delivered technical presentations on drug law and therapy. The event, chaired by EAC Pipfusa Pojar, also featured songs and presentations by local officials and NGOs.
The observance at Baptist Higher Secondary School, Tseminyu, saw participation from students, district officers, and youth. DC Japheth Woch, NCS, served as special guest and led a district-wide pledge to work towards a drug-free Tseminyu.
The program was chaired by EAC Molosangla Ozukum, with ADC Kikumsangla Jamir delivering the keynote. CDPO Menokhrielie offered the vote of thanks.
At Tuensang Town Hall, DC Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa stressed the need to remove stigma and support users with proper guidance, especially in districts like Tuensang that already have treatment facilities. “Parents, NGOs, churches and students must pave the way to a drug-free society,” she said.
In Mon, the observance at Town Council Hall saw DC Wennyei Konyak urge youth to aim for careers in both public and private sectors, not letting drugs “dim their bright.” He acknowledged alcohol as a gateway substance and promised wider awareness drives.
Ingaupule Thou, OST Counsellor, highlighted the shift from punishment to prevention, while ASI Latwang identified key causes like broken families, peer pressure, and school dropouts. KNSK representatives and NGO speaker Sashi Yin joined in the call for collective action.
At the DC’s Conference Hall, Mokokchung, Sr Specialist Dr Kilangwapang spoke on the year’s theme. A recovering addict, Rongsen Jamir, movingly shared his testimony. Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, and SP Vesupra Kezo, NPS, gave closing remarks.