KHONSA, Sep 17: In a collective step towards building a drug-free society, an awareness programme on ‘Illicit Opium Poppy Cultivation and Drug Abuse’ was held at Lazu IB on Thursday under the aegis of Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat.
The programme was organised by the District Administration, Tirap in collaboration with the District-Level NCORD Committee.
Addressing the gathering, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik emphasised that tackling drug abuse requires continuous and sincere efforts from the community. Urging villagers to take responsibility at the grassroots level, he called upon the community to identify and discourage drug peddling within their own areas. Describing addiction as one of the most destructive challenges a person can face, he stressed the need to protect the younger generation and preserve the social fabric of society.
Reassuring the public, he stated that the district administration will continue to extend all possible support in reducing illicit poppy cultivation and addressing drug abuse in the region.
Speaking on the legal side, Deputy Superintendent of Police Padi Payang cautioned that opium cultivation often becomes the starting point of a much larger cycle of addiction, eventually leading to more serious substance abuse. He also informed the gathering about the provisions of the NDPS Act and the legal consequences associated with drug-related activities.
Assistant Commissioner Tax, Excise & Narcotics Monika Lowang spoke about the department’s continuous efforts to curb illicit opium cultivation in the district. She shared that awareness programmes are being conducted regularly every Saturday to reach out to communities. Acknowledging Lazu’s past association with poppy cultivation, she expressed hope that with collective effort and awareness, the area would soon be known for more positive reasons.
One of the most powerful moments of the programme came through the testimony of a recovered addict from Care Me Home De-Addiction Centre. Sharing his personal journey, he spoke candidly about how addiction had pulled him away from his responsibilities, distanced him from his loved ones, and left him feeling isolated from society. He recalled the struggles and pain he went through, and how rehabilitation gave him a second chance at life.
Today, he stands transformed and works as an activist, urging others not to walk the same path he once did.
Najen Rangwang, ZPM Lazu; Nanhang Phuksa, ZPM Tutnu; and AOWA president Wanggo Lowang highlighted the deep impact of drug abuse on families and the community. They appealed to the District Administration, Police, and all line departments to continue extending support, particularly in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. They stressed that providing alternative sources of income and ensuring proper market access for local produce are crucial steps in helping people move away from opium cultivation.
District Horticulture Officer Tagom Ronya suggested practical alternatives such as mithun rearing, fish farming, and commercial agriculture. He encouraged villagers to explore these sustainable options and assured them of full support from the department in this transition.
Also attended by Assistant Commissioner Lazu N L Naam and DIPRO Tirap Ponung Tasing, the programme saw active participation from village chiefs, Gaon Burahs, PRI members, students, youths, and members of the general public, reflecting a shared determination to address the growing concern of drug abuse in the region. (DIPRO)