Officials along with the newly recruited Drugs Control Officers during a valedictory programme held in Kohima on August 4.
Kohima, August 4 (MExN): The Nagaland Directorate of Health and Family Welfare (DHFW) on Tuesday launched the Narcotic and Psychotropic Online Monitoring and Auditing System (NPOMAS) and held the valedictory programme of a month-long induction training for newly recruited Drugs Control Officers.
The programme, organised by the Drugs Control Administration at the Directorate's conference hall, was attended by Principal Director of Health and Family Welfare Dr Mereninla Senlem as the special guest.
The induction programme was aimed at equipping newly recruited Drugs Control Officers with the knowledge, skills and professional values required for effective regulatory enforcement and public service.
Officials said the training covered technical, legal, ethical and administrative aspects of drug regulation, including office management, official drafting, public relations, inspection procedures, enforcement protocols, professional conduct, teamwork and the practical application of drug laws and ethical standards. The programme sought to bridge the gap between academic learning and field realities while preparing officers for regulatory responsibilities.
As part of the training, the officers underwent field attachments and inter-agency exposure through collaborations with the police, excise and judicial authorities. Court attachments familiarised the trainees with legal filings and judicial procedures, while interactions with experienced officers and subject experts provided practical guidance and mentorship.
The officers also received hands-on exposure to pharmacy inspections, supply chain monitoring and regulatory oversight mechanisms. The training stressed continuous learning, adaptability to evolving regulatory requirements and coordinated efforts with law enforcement and social welfare agencies to strengthen public health protection.
A major highlight of the programme was the launch of NPOMAS, a digital platform developed to modernise the monitoring and management of narcotic and psychotropic substances.
According to the department, the system enables real-time stock monitoring, digital record maintenance and improved oversight of prescription details and drug distribution. It is expected to enhance transparency, accountability and regulatory efficiency while providing authorised departmental officers with centralised access for effective monitoring and enforcement.
The department said the platform would also improve coordination among enforcement agencies and support evidence-based decision-making through accurate and timely data.
Officials further highlighted ongoing initiatives to strengthen the state's drug regulatory infrastructure, including expansion of laboratory testing facilities, standardisation of procedures across district hospitals in line with national guidelines, and development of systems to improve monitoring and enforcement.
Addressing the gathering, speakers underlined the role of Drugs Control Officers in safeguarding public health by ensuring the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The newly inducted officers were urged to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct.
The programme concluded with the badging of the newly recruited officers, the formal launch of NPOMAS and a vote of thanks. The department reaffirmed its commitment to continuous professional development, technological innovation and strengthening drug control administration to improve public health and safety across Nagaland.
