The Kohima District Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Committee observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme “Breaking the Chain: Prevention, Treatment, Recovery for All” on June 26 at the NHAK Auditorium,  Kohima, organized by the District Administration Kohima in collaboration with Project REST, NHAK Kohima.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, NCS, B Henok Buchem, emphasized the urgent need to strike a balance between rehabilitative and punitive approaches in tackling substance abuse.

“While we must empower medical professionals and organizations to continue healing and reintegration efforts, law enforcement must simultaneously strengthen its crackdown on drug trafficking. Both are necessary, the carrot and the stick,” he said.

He acknowledged the growing concern that over 90% of drug users are young people. Referring to successful models across the globe, he cited Portugal and Norway for their rehabilitative strategies, and countries like Saudi Arabia and Singapore for their strict punitive measures. He emphasized the importance of a balanced approach in Nagaland—combining strong law enforcement to curb supply with robust rehabilitation and reintegration support for those affected.

The Deputy Commissioner called on all stakeholders, medical professionals, law enforcement, NGOs, educators, and families, to work together in strengthening both the “carrot” and the “stick” aspects of the response. “Our response must be tailored to our unique social and cultural context. Healing cannot happen without enforcement, and enforcement without support leads nowhere,” he asserted.

He further urged young people not to give up on themselves, and assured those recovering from addiction that they are not alone, that it is never too late to rebuild their lives.

Chairing the event was Suyimtenla Jamir, Psychologist, Tele-MANAS, State Mental Health Institute, Kohima. Dr. Imotemsu, Managing Director of NHAK, delivered the welcome address.

Additional SP (Protocol & Traffic) Z Tshurhosie Kajiri, delivering a talk on “Police and Community Partnership in Drug Prevention and Harm Reduction Services,” underscored that the primary role of law enforcement is not just to arrest but to protect lives.

Highlighting the drug-related arrests in Kohima, he said from 2022 to June 2025, a total of 81 drug-related cases were registered in Kohima district, resulting in the arrest of 116 individuals—98 males and 18 females. While most of these cases were booked under Sections 21(c) and 22(c) of the NDPS Act, officials cautioned that these figures represent only reported incidents, and the true scale of substance abuse in the district is likely much higher.

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He emphasized that collaboration between the police and community is essential in tackling the crisis. “Law enforcement alone cannot solve this problem. We must build trust with the community, promote treatment access, reduce stigma, and recognize addiction as a disease—not a crime. Only then can we break the cycle of substance abuse,” he said.

Delivering the legal awareness session, Kezhosano Kikhi, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA Kohima, gave an overview of the NDPS Act and the NLTP Act. She emphasized the legal distinction between users and suppliers, highlighting that while the law is strict with traffickers, it also has provisions for users who voluntarily seek treatment. “Section 64A of the NDPS Act offers immunity to those who choose rehabilitation over punishment,” she explained.

She also called for more structured and consistent implementation of the NLTP Act, particularly pointing out the lack of clear guidelines regarding local brews and inconsistent enforcement across districts. “We need a science-backed policy framework and uniform enforcement to truly uphold the spirit of prohibition,” she added.

Speaking on behalf of the Ark Foundation, President Ketholelie Angami highlighted the growing complexity of the drug scenario in Nagaland. “We are facing a second wave of addiction. The new substances, like Sunflower, are cheaper and more accessible, targeting even younger demographics,” he said.

He narrated disturbing encounters with teenage users, some as young as 12, and noted the increasing number of female users. “Addiction is not a choice. It is a disease recognized by the WHO and the AMA decades ago. Jail is not the solution for a medical condition,” he stressed.

Angami urged the administration and Social Welfare Department to expand de-addiction centres and establish exclusive rehabilitation centres for women. He also called for early prevention campaigns in middle schools, the utilization of NDPS Act provisions like Section 64A, and community sensitisation to reduce stigma.

“We need long-term, serious investment in awareness and infrastructure. Token campaigns are not enough,” he said.

Dr. Sungtimen Jamir, Nodal Officer of Project REST, NHAK, introduced the work of the outpatient-based psychosocial intervention programme, which was launched in August 2023. Project REST supports individuals recovering from substance dependence, especially those who have undergone detoxification, substitution therapy, or residential rehabilitation, and are now working to reintegrate into everyday life. The program, led by a multidisciplinary team, offers free services including individual and group therapy, motivational enhancement, life skills training, crisis counselling, and family therapy.

He highlighted Project REST’s commitment to building a stigma-free support system, walking with recovering individuals not only through structured sessions but also by fostering a resilient community of peer support.

“Recovery is not a destination—it’s a continuous journey. Through Project REST, we strive to make sure no one walks that path alone,” he said.

The formation of an Alcoholics Anonymous group in February 2025 has already provided a vital space for shared healing and accountability, and efforts are underway to begin a Narcotics Anonymous group. He expressed hope that with collaborative support from government departments, civil society, and health professionals, Project REST can expand its reach and impact in the years to come.

Rukutuonuo Rutsa, Clinical Psychologist, DMHP, NHAK, delivered words of appreciation. A special musical performance by the AA group under Project REST also formed part of the programme.

The observance brought together stakeholders from medical institutions, law enforcement, NGOs, legal bodies, and the wider community, reflecting a shared commitment to address addiction through prevention, treatment, and recovery.

DGP calls for urgent, coordinated action

Social Welfare Department, Government of Nagaland along with Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) & Kripa Foundation Nagaland jointly organized International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 at Japfü hotel under the theme “Breaking the chain: Prevention, Treatment, Recovery far all” with DGP Nagaland, Rupin Sharma, IPS as the special guest.

Speaking about the gap in combating the issues of drug abuse and trafficking in the state, the DGP said that works put into tackling this issue is not enough.

Highlighting the grim reality, the DGP revealed that Nagaland has an estimated 1.2 lakh drug users, a majority addicted to heroin and ‘sunflower’ drugs.

Roughly estimating that one-third of them consume half a gram of drugs daily, it amounts to approximately 20,000 grams — or 20 kilograms — per day, he said adding, multiplied over a year, this adds up to an alarming 7,000 kilograms annually.

He further said the figure comes to almost five lakhs soap cases per annum in Nagaland.

He was critical of the performance of the District Anti-Narcotics Task Forces, stating that they have largely failed in their roles. He added that new quantifiable guidelines have been issued to these task forces, including conducting school outreach programs and reporting on de-addiction facilities in their respective districts.

Speaking on the Anti Narcotics Drugs force, the DGP mentioned that district level Anti Narcotics Task forces under NSDPO and OC have been constituted, however district level taskforces have more or less not performed.

DGP said that he has been very hands on with drugs related issues. He also mentioned that he is personally aware about almost all cases of narcotics happening in Nagaland.

Speaking on the Police department, he said that the OCs , SDPOs and SPs are not doing enough. “If the DGP can personally interrogate a few people to find out the links, they should be doing it themselves. But it doesn’t happen that way,” he stated .

Emphasizing on the issue of the demand reduction and supply reduction, he said, “Demand reduction is a battle we will lose.”

He said that there is not enough emphasis being given to supply reduction and there is not enough coordination on the issue of supply reduction.

He also mentioned that the systemic linkages that can help in this fight against drug abuse are nonexistent. “Forget about public, government departments, NGOs, rehab centres, the addiction centres, church… none shares any information to the police,” he lamented.

However, he said initially NBCC under the churches did try to put out a very strong sense of messaging against drug reviews and expressed hope that they are still doing it.

Citing examples of student unions, ward councils, village councils, youth  presidents being involved in drug trafficking, the DGP mentioned that this is happening because someone who is some member of some organisation throws his weight around and does it.

He also highlighted that in his knowledge, no Naga insurgent group is involved in the trafficking, “but the same manner in which black sheep are there in police, there are black sheep in their organisations also.”

Sharma highlighted that in Ceasefire ground rules meetings with the chairman and Ceasefire monitoring group, the police have written multiple times  in case they catch anything, they should hand over the entire consignment with the person concerned to the nearest police station.

“If we do this, the chances of siphoning off any part of the consignment become zero,” he said.

He further said none of his police officers would give up a part of the consignment to any informer. “We will give him cash award if it is required,” he said.

He also said that it is a collective fight but in that collective fight, the loophole and gaps need to be plugged. He also requested all NGOs, Village Council, VDB secretaries, student organizations etc. not to handle these issues informally. “Informal system will not help, any informal system which is doing it is guilty of a conspiracy of doing drug traffic. It is abatement, it is criminal conspiracy,” he said.

He also sought to remove fear around reporting, saying that in the last two-and-a-half years, only one trafficking case involved a weapon, urging the public to confidently share information with the police or those in authority.

Earlier during the program, Bendang Imsong, Coordinator, SLCA, Kripa foundation gave his welcome address while keynote address shared by Mohammed Ali Shihab, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Government of Nagaland .

Dr. Villo Naleo Secy, Social Concerns, NBCC and Abou Mere Director, Kripa foundation also gave short speeches during the event

Closing remark/vote of thanks was said by Tosheli Zhimomi, Director, Social Welfare Department, Government of Nagaland

DIMAPUR:

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed in Dimapur on June 26, at IRCA Prodigal’s Home, under the global theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All!”

The event was jointly organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Prodigal’s Home, and the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Dimapur.

Addressing the gathering, Senior Inspector of the Social Welfare Department, Shikato Jimo, encouraged individuals battling substance abuse to embrace truth and courage in their recovery journey. Commending the residents of Prodigal’s Home for their dedication to recovery, he remarked that acknowledging one’s mistakes requires genuine courage and urged them to remain steadfast in their decision to change.

Jimo emphasized that life’s challenges are a shared human experience, but what defines a person is their response to those difficulties. He reminded the gathering that true peace lies not in the absence of problems, but in the presence of Christ amid them, and affirmed that it is never too late to choose a path of transformation.

He further acknowledged the vital role played by rehabilitation centres like Prodigal’s Home, lauding their continuous service despite challenges. Jimo called for greater state government involvement in awareness campaigns and not leaving the burden solely to NGOs.

The programme began with an opening by counsellor Kinito A. Chishi and a serenity prayer by Pushai Konyak. Prodigal’s Home director, K Ela, delivered the welcome address, followed by special musical performances from residents and musical group Tongmeth & Friends of Tikvah Centre.

Short messages were also shared by representatives of the Dimapur District Users Network, NCB Dimapur Field Unit superintendent Lhunkholal, NCORD Drugs Control Officer T. Zubemo Kikon, and counsellor T. Meren Jaimr.

Participants took a pledge titled “Say Yes to Life, No to Drugs,” reaffirming their commitment to a drug-free life. A prayer of blessing was led by Tovikali Shohe, President of the Baptist Youth Fellowship Dimapur, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks by Subotemjen, Coordinator of IRCA Prodigal’s Home.

NIULAND:

Niuland District Administration in collaboration with the Niuland Police, Social Welfare Department and CAD Foundation, organized International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 at Clock Tower, Niuland Town, under the Theme ” Breaking the chain: Prevention, Treatment, Recovery for All”.

Reflecting on the theme, Director CAD Foundation, Limhathung Ezung, as the main speaker of the event, stated that breaking the chain of the drugs related abuse is very important aspect which should be collective efforts including from churches, public leaders, parents, civil societies in collaboration with the government agencies.

Ezung also highlighted on how to address the issue such as preventive measures, stigma and creating awareness program.

ACP Niuland, Nokin Longkumer, while delivering a short speech, spoke about the legal aspect in dealing with the drugs & narcotic problems and illicit trafficking and said due to the state having a vast area with international borders, it is challenging task to completely control those activities.

Medical Officer CHC Niuland, Dr Rosemary, while highlighting the status of Opioid Substitute therapy (OST) stated that more than 120 people is currently availing OST treatment in the district and shared their problems and inconvenience face by the department officials on OST treatment.

Aviho Achumi who is currently undergoing the OST treatment from CHC Niuland also presented an inspirational message and a special song was presented by Amenli Yepthomi.

Chairperson of the program, EAC Niuland, Vitoka Yepthomi, delivered the vote of thanks while Pastor SBAN, Kughavi Zhomi and pastor NCRC Niuland, Puloto Sheqi  pronounced the invocation and benediction respectively,

MELURI:

The International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking programme, organised by the District Administrative Department in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, Meluri, was held at Town hall, Meluri on June 26.

Deputy Commissioner, Meluri, . Mhathung Tsanglao, NCS, in his exhortation speech, said that there are many chances for today’s youth to fall into the temptation of drug abuse, which affects not only their health but also their families and society as a whole. He expressed his appreciation to Müluori Shefü Kügharü and the Pochury Students’ Union for initiating and sacrificing their time to fight against drug abuse.

Tsanglao urged the gathering to join hands in this fight so that Meluri District can become a beautiful place to live.

SDPO, Meluri, Dr T Desela Sangtam, NPS and Medical officer, CHC Meluri, Dr Kelelo Pradia presented a power point on themes of  Drug Abuse & the Law, and Commonly Abused Drugs & Opioid Substitution Therapy, respectively.

A special song was presented by Atusa Katiry, CDPO, Meluri, S Thorhosie Kajiri pronounced Vote of thanks.

The programme was chaired EAC Meluri, Pipfusa Pojar, and was attended by officials, Anganwadi workers, residents of Meluri Town, MSK members and various NGOs.

TSEMINYU:

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking was held at Baptist Higher Secondary School’s  Auditorium Hall, Tseminyu on June 26 with Deputy Commissioner Tseminyu, Japheth Woch (NCS) as the special guest.

The program was attended by District Officers of various government departments, school students & youths to observe the day earmarked to fight against drug abuse and a pledge was also taken by all attendees to make Tseminyu a drug-free district.

The program was chaired by EAC Tseminyu, Molosangla Ozukum and a keynote address was delivered by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu, Kikumsangla Jamir (NCS) while vote of thanks was pronounced by CDPO Tseminyu, Menokhrielie.

TUENSANG:

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed at Tuensang on  June 26 at Town Hall, Tuensang on the theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for all”. The Programme was organised by Department of Social welfare Tuensang, Addiction Treatment Facility and Opioid Substitution Therapy and District Hospital Tuensang, with Deputy Commissioner, Tuensang, Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa as the Special Guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa emphasized on collaboration in order to fight against Drug addiction in the district.

Stating that Tuensang is fortunate to have addiction treatment facility where many drug users are treated and have some positive changes, she added our society’s mindset should change towards the user and give them a chance to change by giving them proper guidance and support.

Many addictions happen among the broken families where parents have a great role to play in moulding the children, she further said.

The Deputy Commissioner also encouraged the NGOs, churches and the students’ community to come together and pave a way for a drug-free society in the District.

Other highlights of the function included the welcome address by DWO Tuensang, T. Longlang Luckpan, Keynote address by DPO, DAPCU, Tuensang, Chongshen Chang, presentation on Battle against Drug by Toshi Chang, OC Tuensang, special melody from School of Nursing Tuensang and a vote of thanks was delivered by Sentilemla Longkumer AFT Counsellor. The Programme was chaired by OST Nurse DHT, Laam.

MON:

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed at Town Council Hall, Mon on June 26 with the theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for all”.

Deputy Commissioner Mon, Wennyei Konyak, NCS, while exhorting, said that drug addiction is a serious issue not only Nagaland or India but of the whole world. Taking notes of the theme he appealed to all the officers, civil societies to work together, to fight against drug abuse and make this society a drug-free society. He added that there are many reasons for the addiction, some just for fun sake, leading to addiction mentioning that alcohol is also one of the drugs. ‘He encouraged to be prepared and assured that he would  try to bring more  awareness in the district. He appealed to the youngsters to not let drugs dim their bright, but to focus on their goals.  He also urged them to not only focus in government sectors, but also in the private sector. For an educated person the door is always open, make your way to serve.

“Don’t let your goal vanish by drug,” he said.

A short speech was delivered by OST Counsellor, Mon, Ingaupule Thou. She said that the main objective of this day is to achieve the goal of a world free-drug abuse. He highlighted that the year’s theme represents a holistic approach a shift from punishment to prevent stigma to support and from despair to recovery. She encouraged all the concerned to have a role to play together to build a future where every individual has the right and opportunity to live free from the horror of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.  She also highlighted the OST data in the Mon District Hospital and also from Satellite Tobu, Aboi, Chen.

ASI, SP Office Mon, Latwang, shared his experiences, from the police perspective in the District. He said that some of the causes of addiction are Addiction traits passed down from father to child (history), peer group, leisure, broken families and school dropouts.

Representatives from KNSK also requested all the officers, civil societies, and common people to join hands together to fight against drug abuse to make our society a better place.

Sashi Yin from Evergreen Welfare Society, Mon gave an awareness talk.

The programme was chaired by EAC, Mon,  Er. R. Mhao Humtsoe. A special song was presented by Yangman Konyak, Nagaland Collective and invocation by District Chaplain. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by SDO (C), Mon, Ajit Kumar, IAS.

MOKOKCHUNG:

In observance of the International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking 2025, a programme was organized by District-level Nasha Bharat Abhiyan Committee, Mokokchung, which was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Mokokchung.

Sr. Specialist, IMDH, Dr. Kilangwapang, shared his insight on the theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for All”, while short speeches were delivered by President, Waysu Mungdang, Tianaro Jamir and Vice-President AKM. In the programme, Rongsen Jamir, a recovering addict, shared his testimony while Imkum Ozukum presented a special number.

Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS and Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, Vesupra Kezo, NPS, gave the concluding remarks.

District Welfare Officer, Mokokchung, I Mangliyangba delivered the welcome address, while Youth Director, MTBA, Akangtemsu Yaden said the invocation. The programme was chaired by Limatongzuk Jamir of Care & Support Society.