Shillong, April 23: With active participation of all stakeholders, including government departments and the public, in Meghalaya’s Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM), drug use in the state could be significantly reduced and even eliminated within five years, DREAM director Francis Kharshiing said on Thursday
He underscored the importance of collective responsibility in tackling the problem while addressing a conference on drugs and substance abuse in West Garo Hills district.
“Collaboration and proactive engagement are key to effectively addressing drug and substance abuse,” he said.
The Mission requires coordinated efforts across departments and sustained community involvement to curb the drug menace in the state, he added.
Earlier, Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Agatha K Sangma highlighted the increasing concern over the easy availability of intoxicating substances, including drugs and tobacco, among children.
She pointed out that Meghalaya’s proximity to the “golden triangle” has made it vulnerable to the transit of illegal substances to neighbouring states and countries, further aggravating the issue.
Stressing the need for child protection, she called for awareness, prevention, and stronger institutional response to safeguard young people from addiction.
Organised by MSCPCR in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office and the District Child Protection Unit, the conference was held with the aim to ensure better coordination among various line departments in combating drug and substance abuse in the district.
It featured a series of technical sessions focusing on the current scenario of substance abuse in West Garo Hills, personal perspectives from recovering users, and ongoing initiatives aimed at reducing addiction and rehabilitating affected individuals.
The conference concluded with a call for sustained coordination, community involvement, and intensified efforts to combat drug and substance abuse and protect the youth of the district.
