As part of the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the theme ” Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Sports”,  the District Administration Noklak and the Social Welfare Department, Noklak, in collaboration with the Noklak District Badminton Association, organized a two-day Badminton Tournament at the Multi Discipline Stadium, Noklak, on June 26.

Special guest of the event, P Longon, MLA and Advisor, Department of Taxes,  lauded for  successfully organising the awareness programme on drug abuse, describing it as a significant step towards building a healthier and safer society.

Reflecting on the past, he recalled that when Noklak was still a part of Tuensang district, many could hardly have imagined that such a large-scale awareness initiative would one day be held in the district. Highlighting the dangers of peer pressure, he cautioned that a single wrong decision or association could drastically alter the course of a person’s life.

He stressed that drug abuse is not only a social evil but also poses serious threats to an individual’s physical health, mental well-being, and future prospects. Encouraging young people to make positive choices, he urged them to participate in sports, games, and other constructive activities to stay away from addiction and make meaningful use of their time.

He further observed that substance abuse often drives individuals towards criminal activities, sometimes without them fully realizing the consequences of their actions. Concluding his address, he called upon the youth to remain obedient, disciplined, and respectful, adding that those who make responsible choices earn the trust, love, and respect of their families, teachers, communities, and society at large.

Later, he also declared the tournament.

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Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, P Mono Khiamniungan, noted that a similar programme had also been organised in the district last year on the theme “Run Against Drugs.” He informed that the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has been observed annually since 1989, and said the observance serves as a strong message to the youth on the importance of living a drug-free life.

He stressed that erasing the drug menace is not the responsibility of law enforcement agencies alone, but of every individual.  He urged citizens to play an active role in breaking the supply chain of drugs by remaining vigilant and cooperating with the authorities.

District Programme Officer (DPO), Social Welfare, Ajongla Temjen, expressed her appreciation at seeing the collective focus  of the participants towards the anti-drug program.  She observed that drug trafficking has become increasingly widespread, with traffickers now exploiting social media platforms and mobile applications to target and lure people, particularly the youth.

Stressing that the common enemy is drug abuse, she urged young people to resist and overcome every temptation associated with substance abuse.

An exhibition match was played between the ongoing coaching students.

A special appearance was presented by Noklak District Teakwondo  Association, and a special number by Sangsoi L. Earlier, the program was chaired by Nungshitola Longkumer, Asst. GS , NDBA, invocation by Pastor A Penglang, NTBC ,  welcome note by Nyampha, GS, NDBA.