DC Peren, Hiazu Meru with other officials and participants during the celebration of 5 years of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan held at DC’s Office, Peren on November 18. (DIPR Photo)
Peren, November 19 (MExN): The Deputy Commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru, emphasised that collaboration with the Church is crucial in the fight against drug abuse in Nagaland, citing its role as a vital and influential platform in the state.
The DC made the remarks while gracing the 5th-anniversary observance of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in Peren on November 18. The event was organised by the District Level Committee for Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, stated a DIPR report.
Outlining the national vision for a ‘Nasha Mukt, Sashakt Bharat’ (Drug-Free, Capable India), DC Meru stressed the need for skill development and capacity building for rehabilitated individuals to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.
He highlighted various initiatives undertaken by government departments in Peren to curb drug misuse. “In a recent action, surprise inspections were conducted in pharmacies in Jalukie valley, leading to the detection of illegal pharmaceutical drugs in some establishments,” the DC informed. He added that necessary actions had been taken, including the suspension of licences of the concerned pharmacies.
Expressing deep concern, Meru stated that Peren, already an economically and educationally disadvantaged district, faces aggravated challenges due to the growing problem of drug abuse. He cautioned that every household and community would be affected if the issue is not addressed collectively.
Highlighting the gravity of drug-related issues in various parts of India, such as Punjab, the DC underscored the need for a multi-pronged strategy. He said that combating substance abuse cannot be the sole responsibility of government departments, but requires the collective involvement of all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, tribal bodies, church institutions, student communities, and youth organizations. “This collaborative approach is at the heart of the Government of India’s strategy,” he noted.
Meru stressed that awareness generation remains one of the major objectives of NMBA. He stated that the event was organised with the purpose of sensitising leaders of various organisations and government departments on the importance of awareness and mitigation. He also highlighted the efforts of the Government of India in addressing drug abuse through community outreach, capacity building, technological intervention, and partnerships with civil society groups.
In conclusion, the DC appealed to all stakeholders to unite, extend cooperation, and work together to safeguard the youth and future generations, urging the people to strengthen their collective resolve to build a drug-free Peren.
Hailungding, a member from Peren Users Network presented an overview of the substance abuse scenario in Peren District, highlighting emerging challenges, contributing factors, vulnerable groups, community-level concerns, Government programmes in Peren District under NMBA and key recommendations or possible strategies to address the issue.
A presentation on the functioning of OST Centres in Peren District was delivered by DPO, DISHA Unit, Peren, Rovikhoto Mor, who emphasized the centres’ role in rehabilitation, continuity of care, and harm-reduction efforts.
The programme was chaired by DPO (Social Welfare), Peren, Tsungrosongla Ao. A short speech was also delivered by the President of ZYON, R John Zeliang, while a special number was presented by GL Naga. The DC Peren later administered a pledge against Drug Abuse, reaffirming Peren District’s commitment to creating a drug-free community. This was followed by prize distribution for various NMBA related activities conducted across the district. A vote of thanks was delivered by SDO (Civil), Peren, Sentilong Ozukum.
