The Wokha District NASHA MUKT Bharat Abhiyan organized the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with ADC, Wokha, K Furhesie Nyuwi as the Special Guest on July 1, 2024, at Lotha Hoho Ki, Wokha.
Addressing the occasion, Furhesie said that drug abuse is a social problem that has taken generations away from us. It leads to a detrimental impact on society, increasing the crime rate, affecting financial stability, and causing untold emotional pain for every member of the family. He also mentioned that with most addicts being in the productive age group of 18 to 35 years, the loss in terms of human potential is incalculable.
Stressing the strategy to fight abuse effectively, he emphasized supply reduction through community policing by informing enforcement agencies about drug movements, effective coordination among enforcement agencies, creating awareness among citizens, and mass campaigns involving community participation. He noted the need for more de-addiction centers run by committed NGOs.
He further stated that addressing the root cause of drug addiction and implementing effective prevention and treatment programs are vital in reducing demand and weakening the drug trade. Strengthening family values, proper monitoring of schools and colleges, focusing on skilling youths, and diverting their attention to positive outputs are some of the ways to reduce the menace of drugs in our society. He appealed to everyone to join hands in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Assistant Director of Kripa Foundation, Kychamo P Ezung, speaking on the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” emphasized the importance of having effective drug policies grounded in science, research, compassion, and full respect for human rights. He highlighted that World Drug Day raises awareness about the severe consequences of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, which destroy lives, disrupt communities, fuel crime, and weaken economies.
He also stated that holistic drug prevention policies need to be developed at the state and district levels to empower youth, equipping them with knowledge, skills, and resources to say “no to drugs” and become agents of change in their communities. These initiatives should amplify youth voices in the conversation about drug prevention.
“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 are empowered to lead healthy lives,” he said. During the program, short speeches were also delivered by Addl SP Wokha K Soriso, Chief Medical Officer Dr Zuben Kikon, and Sr. SDEO Minthunglo Ngullie.
