The District Level Committee for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), Peren, observed the 5th Anniversary of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Peren on November 18 with Deputy Commissioner, Peren, Hiazu Meru gracing the programme as the special guest.

In his address, Hiazu Meru, stated that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) -translated as the “Drug Free India Campaign” – is a flagship initiative of the Government of India launched on August 15, 2020 to address the growing challenge of substance abuse across the country. Marking the fifth year of the Abhiyaan, he emphasized that the programme is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Highlighting the gravity of drug-related issues in various parts of India, such as Punjab, the DC underscored the need for a multi-pronged strategy. He said that combating substance abuse cannot be the sole responsibility of government departments, but requires the collective involvement of all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, tribal bodies, church institutions, student communities, and youth organizations. “This collaborative approach is at the heart of the Government of India’s strategy,” he noted.

Meru stressed that awareness generation remains one of the major objectives of NMBA. He stated that the event was organised with the purpose of sensitising leaders of various organisations and government departments on the importance of awareness and mitigation.

He also highlighted the efforts of the Government of India in addressing drug abuse through community outreach, capacity building, technological intervention, and partnerships with civil society groups.

Referring to the context of Nagaland, the DC said that collaboration with the Church is crucial, as it is a vital and influential platform in the state. He added that the vision of the Government of India is to achieve a “Nasha Mukt, Sashakt Bharat” – a Drug-Free and Capable India. For rehabilitated individuals, he stressed the need for skill development and capacity building to help them reintegrate into society.

The DC further highlighted various initiatives undertaken by government departments in Peren District to curb drug misuse. He informed that surprise inspections were recently conducted in pharmacies in Jalukie valley, during which illegal pharmaceutical drugs were detected in some establishments

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Necessary actions were taken, and the licences of the concerned pharmacies have been suspended.

Expressing concern over the increasing challenges faced by the district, Meru said that Peren is already economically and educationally disadvantaged, and the growing problem of drug abuse further aggravates the situation. He cautioned that every household and community would be affected in some way if the issue is not addressed collectively.

In his concluding remarks, the DC appealed to all stakeholders to unite, extend cooperation, and work together to safeguard the youth and future generations. He urged the people of Peren District to strengthen their collective resolve and strive towards building a drug-free Peren.

During the programme, Hailungding, a member from the Peren Users Network presented an overview of the substance abuse scenario in Peren District, highlighting emerging challenges, contributing factors, vulnerable groups, community-level concerns, Govt. programmes in Peren District under NMBA and key recommendations or possible strategies to address the issue.

A presentation on the functioning of OST Centres in Peren District was delivered by DPO, DISHA Unit, Peren, Rovikhoto Mor, who emphasized the centres’ role in rehabilitation, continuity of care, and harm-reduction efforts.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by DPO (Social Welfare), Peren, Tsungrosongla Ao. A short speech was also delivered by the President of ZYON, R. John Zeliang, while a special number was presented by GL Naga.

As part of the observance, the DC administered a pledge against Drug Abuse, reaffirming Peren District’s commitment to creating a drug-free community. This was followed by prize distribution for various NMBA related activities conducted across the district.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by SDO (Civil), Peren, Sentilong Ozukum.