The District Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) Committee, Kohima, in collaboration with the District Administration, observed the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Kohima, under the theme “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchaan.”
Deputy Commissioner and Chairperson of the District NMBA Committee, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, in his keynote address, said young people are the best messengers of positive social change and urged them to become ambassadors against substance abuse. Sharing his visits to the district Jail, he said it was painful to see many young people there because of their involvement in drug abuse and trafficking, adding that addiction often begins with seemingly small habits before progressing to more dangerous substances.
He advised students never to experiment with drugs and encouraged them to guide their friends and family members away from substance abuse. Referring to the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, he said the campaign is a coordinated national initiative aimed at creating a drug-free society through prevention, awareness, treatment and rehabilitation.
The Deputy Commissioner informed that over the past year, the district administration, in collaboration with departments and partner organisations, had organised anti-drug awareness lectures in schools, campaigns in government offices and villages, slogan and drawing competitions, workshops on relapse prevention, adolescent wellness programmes, student anti-drug clubs, seminars on substance use disorders, sensitisation programmes for law enforcement agencies, orientation programmes for healthcare workers, IEC campaigns and skill development programmes for recovering addicts.
Highlighting the changing social landscape, he said migration, unemployment and other socio-economic challenges have made young people more vulnerable to substance abuse. He urged the youth to remain focused on their goals and work hard towards building meaningful lives. Stressing that drug abuse undermines public health, safety and human dignity, he said the response should not be limited to punishing offenders but should also focus on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and strong community support. He called upon all stakeholders to renew their commitment to building healthier families and safer communities free from the menace of drugs.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Kohima, Krodi Rhetso, said awareness remains the most effective tool in combating drug abuse and appreciated the various activities being carried out under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Referring to the five-kilometre mini marathon organised earlier in the day, he said the participation of students, police personnel, government officials and members of the public reflected the collective commitment towards a drug-free society.
Expressing concern over the increasing prevalence of substance abuse among young people, he urged students to reject the misconception that experimenting with drugs is harmless. Highlighting the efforts of Kohima Police, Rhetso informed that during the past one and a half years, police had seized about 7.9 kilograms of heroin, 9.4 kilograms of brown sugar, 20.9 kilograms of opium, 238 bottles of cough syrup, around 400 strips of Nitrazepam tablets and more than 200 strips of Tramadol tablets, while registering over 33 cases under the NDPS Act.
He said that although law enforcement agencies would continue taking strict action against traffickers, policing alone could not eliminate the problem, and called upon parents, teachers, churches, community leaders and citizens to work together in protecting the younger generation from drug abuse.
Delivering a presentation on “Women and Addiction,” Director of Life Connect Nagaland, Sali Kez Ngully, said the faith-based organisation is committed to empowering vulnerable and marginalised women through a holistic approach addressing their spiritual, emotional, physical and economic well-being. She said Life Connect has helped many women recover from alcoholism, substance addiction and involvement in the illicit liquor trade through counselling, rehabilitation, skill development and livelihood opportunities.
Describing addiction as a public health issue rather than a moral failing, she emphasised that recovery requires treatment, compassion and community support. She pointed out that many women battling addiction are also victims of trauma, abuse and poverty, making rehabilitation more challenging. She highlighted the organisation’s initiatives, including counselling, group therapy, vocational training, financial literacy, legal aid and its Life Kids programme, which supports children of women undergoing rehabilitation.
Ngully placed three proposals before the Government: recognising addiction as a public health issue, partnering with organisations to create livelihood opportunities such as paper bag production for women in recovery, and establishing a residential rehabilitation and vocational training centre where women can safely recover and rebuild their lives. She stressed that recovery is possible through partnership, acceptance and sustained community support.
A testimony was also shared by a woman recovering from alcohol addiction, who spoke about the challenges addiction had brought to her family and health and how Life Connect had helped transform her life. She will be serving as a peer mentor to support other women in recovery.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner released “Voice of Hope,” an awareness video on addiction. The programme was chaired by District Welfare Officer, Department of Social Welfare, Imlitongzuk Ao, invocation was offered by Bendangtemsu, Pastor, NCBC, while the pledge and vote of thanks were delivered by Bendang Imsong, Project Coordinator, SLCA.
WOKHA:
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 was observed in Wokha district on the theme “World Drug Problem: Resisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Response.” The programme, organized by the Department of Social Welfare, was held at Town Hall, Wokha in June 26.
Deputy Commissioner Wokha, K Mhathung Tsanglao, NCS, attended as the special guest. In his address, he spoke on the grave issues surrounding drug abuse, noting its destructive impact on society, family life, and the future of young people. He emphasized that the war against drugs must begin with awareness and education at institutions, churches, and village levels, stressing that preventive measures are far more effective than reactive responses.
He further stated that while law enforcement agencies are doing their part, stricter and more coordinated efforts are needed to maximize results. He encouraged the Lotha Youth Hoho to continue their work against drugs with compassion and inclusivity, urging them to focus on love and acceptance rather than stigmatization. He highlighted the importance of rehabilitation centres, calling for community support to reintegrate victims into society. “This war is against drugs, not against people,” he said, stressing that victims must be saved from the substance, not fought against.
The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the youth, describing them as the future of Wokha district and the Lotha community, and urged them to dedicate their full potential for the betterment of society. He also called upon churches to spread love and inclusivity rather than isolating victims, reminding citizens of their collective responsibility to make Wokha a drug‑free and hopeful place.
Member of WDLSA, Abigail Lotha, presented on the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Act, 2017, explaining its provisions on human rights, safeguards against discrimination, punishable offenses, and special protections for women and children. She linked drug use to higher HIV infection rates and stressed the importance of awareness, sex education, and parental involvement in shaping children’s behaviour and mental development at an early age.
Konathung Ezung shared his personal recovery journey, demonstrating the possibilities of overcoming addiction, and also presented a special song.
Theme speaker, L Zachamo Ovung from YRG Care Foundation delivered a detailed explanation of the theme, offering deeper insights into the challenges and innovative responses to the drug problem.
The programme was chaired by District Welfare Officer, James Ezung, who gave the introductory remarks. A short play was presented by Santsuo School, Wokha, adding a creative dimension to the awareness campaign.
Earlier in the day, a bike rally and awareness programme was organized at GHSS Chukitong, Wokha, under the theme “Ride Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking: Step Up for a Drug‑Free Future.” The rally was flagged off at PWD Junction, Wokha Town.
NOKLAK:
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed at White Hall, Noklak, on June 26, 2026, under the theme “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
In his keynote address, EAC Noklak, Apuloka H Sumi, stated that drug abuse not only affects individuals but also impacts families, society, and the district as a whole in one way or another. He called upon all drug users to learn to say “No to Drugs.” On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse, he urged everyone to renew their commitment and join the fight against drug abuse.
Speaking as the theme speaker, Cluster Prevention Officer, NSAC Noklak, Chubainla Longchar, focused on the persisting issues, new challenges, and innovative responses to the drug problem. She said that stigma and discrimination against drug users are very common and urged everyone to break this stigma. She encouraged people to support and help drug users overcome addiction and lead healthier lives in a better environment.
Highlighting the significance of the day, Counsellor, OST District Hospital Noklak, Onokesenu Kera, said that drug abuse is a worldwide problem. She requested the gathering to support and educate drug users and stressed that there is hope for recovery from drug addiction.
District Programme Officer (ICDS), Social Welfare Department, Noklak, Ajongla Temjen; President, Thang Range Public Organization, L. Hangthing; and Vice President, Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam, Chongkhem, also spoke on the occasion. They highlighted the growing problem of drug abuse in the district and discussed ways to prevent and overcome addiction. Describing the situation as alarming, they urged people from all walks of life to work together to make Noklak a drug-free district.
During the programme, Mongchon shared how he reclaimed his life from drug abuse. He stated that with the proper use of OST, he was able to overcome addiction. He advised drug users to make proper use of OST and strive to recover from drug abuse.
The programme was jointly organised by the District Administration, NMBA, and the District Social Welfare Department in collaboration with NUN, KBCA LWS, and TI.
TSEMINYU:
The District Administration and the Department of Social Welfare in collaboration with Tseminyu Village Youth Organisation observed the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking rally against drugs, marching from Tseminyu Village via DC Office to Town Hall, Tseminyu for the culmination program of Nasha Mukti Sapta on June 26. The program was organised under the theme: Nasha Mukti Abhiyaan -Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchaan.
The keynote address was given by Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu, Japheth Woch (NCS), where he emphasized that not only Youth Organisation but also all civil society organizations should oppose strongly against substance abuse in the district.
The program was chaired by Victoria Kent District Mission Coordinator, DHEW Tseminyu, while Administrator OSC Tseminyu, Kenyuhyule Thong spoke on Stress Management, Peer Pressure & Substance Abuse, and the DPO, Social Welfare Department Tseminyu, Sentimengla Pongener administered the pledge to all the participants.
The event concluded with a mass signature campaign to reinforced the communities’ commitment against drug abuse in the district.
MON:
In Mon the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed at Town Council Hall, Mon on June 26, on the theme “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan – Viksit Bharat Ki Pechaan”.
Superintendent of Police, Mon, Kanchan Kumar Kanpal, IPS, while exhorting the gathering requested the gathering to spread awareness on drug abuse and its effects, said awareness is important to reduce the addiction in society. He added that self-awareness is a protection wall for oneself. He also urged the people to cooperate with the Police to fight against drugs, and stated that together we can eradicate the drug from our society.
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Dr Tingthong, MO, DH, Mon in his short speech said that drug abuse is a global problem affecting Mon district too. He asserted that most common substances available in the district are Opium, Ganja, Sunflower and OST from black market. All these create sever problem in the community and family by spreading chronic illness and infectious diseases. He also briefs on the functioning of OST Centre in District Hospital Mon, CHC Aboi and PHC Tizit.
Konyak Union President, Yamao Konyak and representatives from Konyak Students’ Union also delivered a short speech.
CDPO Mon, Laitak delivered the welcome address and administered the Pledge to the gathering. Special Numbers was presented by Yangman Konyak, Nagaland Collective, while an Awareness Talk was proposed by Longching, Gospel Outreach Ministry. EAC Mon, Kedoseno Rino pronounced the vote of thanks.
PUNGRO:
The Yimkhiung Youth Organization in collaboration with District Administration, Nagaland Police, Nagaland Village Guard, 30th Assam Rifles Battalion, Achomang MPCS TI-Pungro and Civil Society Organizations, Pungro observed International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 at Traffic point, Pungro Town on the theme “World drug problems: persisting issues, new challenges, innovative responses”.
The programme was chaired by Y Peshu Solomon, Executive Chairman YYO, invocation by Tsuyihba, Pastor PTBC, keynote address by Apong Janger, President YYO. Several speakers offered remarks including Subedar Major (NVG), President (PSDPF), OC (30th Assam Rifles Battalion, Pungro), OC (Police Station, Pungro), JE Civil (BRO), President (PACSU), President (PSDGBU) and EAC Pungro, and Er. H Aloto Shohe, NCS spoke on the use of Drugs and its ill effects on health and society and the persistent fight against illicit trafficking at both local and global level. This was followed by brief sharing of testimony by Wapang, PE Achomang, TI-Pungro, while Hanso, Vice President YYO conveyed the vote of thanks.
The programme concluded with benediction offered by Throngji Sameul, Touring Catechist, St. Paul Parish, followed by rally marching from Traffic Point to Six Star Junction, Pungro.
MOKOKCHUNG:
In a continued effort towards the observance of Nasha Mukt Bharat Saptah, the culmination programme of weeklong activities creating awareness to address substance abuse, commemorating the “International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking,” was convened at the DC’s Conference Hall, Mokokchung on June 26.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, stated that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) is one of the most important pillars of Viksit Bharat. He stressed the different dimensions of the drug issue, including supply and demand. Underscoring the importance of awareness and rehabilitation centres, DC added that the government alone cannot tackle this crisis. He urged social institutions like the churches to come forward in creating more awareness and providing rehabilitation support, advocating for a collective fight against drug abuse.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Vesupra Kezo, highlighted the severe impacts of drugs on individuals, families, society, crime, and law and order. Stating that awareness is the key to combating this menace, Kezo briefed the gathering on the NDPS Act of 1985. He reminded attendees that police verification is mandatory for jobs and passport applications, urging everyone to stay away from drugs.
The programme was organized under the theme “NMBA: Viksit Bharat ke Pehchaan” and was chaired by Keneinguzo Sekhose, NCS (P). The event began with an invocation by Imtisunep Pongen, followed by a welcome address from Neithozo Theunuo, EAC.
During the event, Chungpongchila, an OST Counsellor, spoke on “Drug Addiction: Symptoms and Availability of Treatment.” Other highlights included a solo song by Apensala from PM SHRI Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), and a short address by T. Nungsangmanen Aier, Master of Theology. Merentoshi Changkiri, a student from PM SHRI Mayangnokcha GHSS, also delivered a speech on the “Role of Youth in Building a Drug-Free Society.”
The DC and Sr. SP distributed prizes and certificates to the winners and participants. The programme concluded with a collective Drug-Free Pledge and a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Commissioner and Nodal Officer of NMBA, Mokokchung, Dr. Madhavi R, IAS.
