Phek SP Dr Pritpal Kaur and others during the launch of the Elpis Society in Phek on August 16.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 16
The Elpis Society for Rehabilitation Centre was launched in Phek on Sunday by Dr Pritpal Kaur, Superintendent of Police (SP), Phek, with a call for collective efforts towards making the district free of drugs and intoxicants.
During the launch, Dr Kaur formally unveiled the Society's Constitution and encouraged people to work towards creating a drug- and intoxicant-free Phek.
She said the rehabilitation centre and society represented her "final parting gift" to the district before her transfer, expressing hope that the initiative would contribute to building a more peaceful and progressive community.
The Elpis Society is a community-based organisation established to address the rehabilitation needs of individuals struggling with alcohol, drug and substance dependence. "Elpis" is a Greek word meaning "hope for good".
Founded under the vision and leadership of Dr Kaur, the society aims to provide healing and support for individuals affected by addiction and facilitate their reintegration into society along with their families.
Its core areas include awareness generation, prevention, counselling, rehabilitation support, community engagement and advocacy. It also aims to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with substance use disorders.
The launch programme was chaired by Wezote Akami, general secretary of the Elpis Society, and began with an invocation by Dr Vezhoto Soho, associate pastor, PTBC.
Delivering the keynote address, Velato Nienu, president of the Elpis Society, underscored the importance of compassion, community participation and collective responsibility in addressing substance dependence.
Vice-president Nuvekulu Ezung presented the society's vision and mission, followed by a musical performance of "When We Believe" by Vamvelu Lohe of Tune Up Academy.
The launch marked the beginning of a dedicated effort to restore hope, dignity and purpose to individuals affected by addiction and advance the vision of a healthier, more compassionate and addiction-free society. Work and repairs at the rehabilitation centre have commenced, and the first batch of people struggling with drug dependence will soon be registered.
