ZIRO, Mar 19: As part of the ongoing Arunachal Rising Campaign (ARC), the Lower Subansiri District Administration in collaboration with the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Hong conducted a one-day awareness programme on child labour, drug abuse, and skill development at Mahatma Gandhi Centre (MGC), Hong here today.
The event featured insightful sessions by distinguished resource persons. Ngilyang Pugang, District Labour and Employment Officer (Ziro), spoke extensively on child labour and the legal measures to curb it. Bamin Asha, women president of All Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Squad, addressed the growing drug menace in Ziro, highlighting its adverse effects on health and families. Ashutosh Ranjan, Centre Superintendent MGC (Hong), elaborated on how skill development initiatives are transforming lives and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking as chief guest on the occasion, Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme emphasized the importance of education in eliminating child labour and combating drug abuse. She urged parents and stakeholders to ensure that every child is enrolled in school, and encouraged youth to pursue skill development and self-employment opportunities. Citing examples such as homestay ventures, she stressed the need for basic hospitality training, including effective communication skills. She called for collective and sustained efforts from all sections of society to combat drug menace.
Punyo Hinda, Executive Director Mahatma Gandhi Centre (Hong), in his address, highlighted that the centre promotes Gandhian ideals while offering skill-based courses such as plumbing, electrical work, and beautician training. He urged students and NGOs to act as catalysts in spreading awareness on critical social issues discussed during the programme.
Earlier, in his welcome address, DIPRO in-charge Tai Arun stated that the District Administration and IPR Department, Lower Subansiri, have produced two awareness videos under the campaign—one focusing awareness on drug abuse and another showcasing the district’s progress titled “Lower Subansiri Rising.” Both videos were screened during the programme to spread awareness among attendees.
He further stated that the ARC is a comprehensive publicity initiative aimed at fostering a positive shift through a citizen-centric approach. The campaign seeks to promote development by ensuring awareness, participation, and accessibility to various government schemes, welfare measures, and flagship programmes.
The programme witnessed active participation from teachers and students of Saint Claret College, Ziro, and Mudo Tamo Memorial College, along with various stakeholders including ZPC Hibu Dumi, Ziro-based NGO Eingko Foundation led by founder Tage Onia, members of the Apatani Students’ Union, All Hong Students Union, Gaon Burahs and Burihs of Hong, besides officials and students of MGC, Hong.
On the occasion, the MGC also distributed certificates to recently passed-out students through the DC, recognizing their successful completion of various skill development courses.