Akehda Amulung Kiphire, the Implementing Support Agency for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), organized an awareness programme and plantation drive on May 25 at PM SHRI Government High School Yangphi, Kiphire, Nagaland.
The programme was led by Irothe T Sangtam. The invocation prayer was delivered by Maria Rudy Thonger, President of Evangelical Graduate Fellowship, Kiphire.
Lipiri Sangtam, Assistant Headmaster of the school, delivered the welcome address. He welcomed the team led by Chairman, T Ariba and stated that the programme was very important, especially for the young people who are our future generations. He thanked Longtili C Sangtam, Founder of Akehda Amulung, for always supporting the school and contributing to different social activities.
The main session on “Say No to Drugs – Yes to Life” was delivered by Kedorianuo Sirie, Psychologist, DMHP, District Hospital Kiphire. During the session, she stated that protecting life, dignity, and the future is a social responsibility. She said that Nagaland is well known for its rich flora, fauna, and festivals, but sadly is also becoming known for tobacco use, addiction, and substance abuse.
She explained that addiction includes tobacco, alcohol, and drugs that slowly take control of a person’s life. Many people begin using substances without intention, often because of peer pressure and the desire to fit into friend circles.
She also highlighted that tobacco consumption in Nagaland is alarming and one among the highest in Indian States. Factors such as easy availability, unemployment, social pressure, and peer influence contribute to addiction.
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She further stated that addiction damages people mentally, physically, and socially. She encouraged the students and participants to overcome addiction through sports, faith fellowship, and spending time with the right group of friends. She reminded the gathering that the human mind is precious and should be protected, adding that one right decision can lead to a better future.
In the closing remarks, T Ariba, Chairman of Akehda Amulung, thanked the school authority for allowing the organization to conduct the programme. He also thanked the resource person and all individuals who participated. He expressed hope that through collective efforts, society would one day achieve the goal of a drug-free community.
The programme was followed by a plantation drive. During the plantation activity, Longtili C Sangtam, Founder of Akehda Amulung, thanked the Forest Department for providing saplings. He stated that planting trees is part of the effort to build a greener Kiphire, these trees represent youths of Kiphire who will bear the fruits and encouraged sustainable approaches in all development activities in the district.
He also thanked the 30 Assam Rifles for joining the programme and said that inclusive environmental activities are important for all stakeholders of the district. He further thanked the students, teachers, and participants for their support and wished everyone good health and a better future.
