TEZU, Oct 12: An awareness programme was organised at Tamladu festival ground, Medo to sensitise students and the public about the harmful effects of drug and opium abuse and the need to prevent illicit poppy cultivation.
Addressing the gathering, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo emphasised that eradicating drug abuse requires sustained and collective efforts and cannot be achieved overnight. He stated that the Police Department is making every possible effort to curb drug-related activities, while stressing the importance of community participation.
Sensitising the students, the DC highlighted the harmful consequences of substance abuse and urged them to stay away from drugs and other harmful habits. He advised them to concentrate on their studies, respect parents, elders and teachers, and show love towards younger ones.
The programme was organised as part of the district-wide campaign planned during the coordination meeting held on September 21. The District Administration had resolved to strengthen preventive measures before the onset of the opium cultivation season through three-tier Task Force Committees at District, Sub-Divisional/Circle and Village levels to coordinate awareness activities and discourage illicit cultivation.
Earlier, Solel Longling, Deputy Director, ICDS, delivered the welcome address. Sokhep Kri, Chairman CALSOM; Lupalum Kri; ZPC Lohit; and representatives of the Women's Welfare Committee, Lohit and Wakro units, also addressed the gathering as resource persons.
The Officer-in-Charge, Wakro PS, explained the important provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. He informed that punishments vary according to the nature of the offence and the type and quantity of narcotic substances involved. He cautioned that prolonged legal proceedings could cause financial hardship, mental stress and loss of valuable time. He also warned that knowingly allowing vehicles or property to be used for drug-related activities could attract legal action.
Dr Nani Kuru, PHC Medo, highlighted the adverse effects of opium and other narcotic substances on human body, particularly the brain, neurons and nervous system. He explained the serious health consequences of substance abuse, including addiction and damage to vital organs.
Er. Lupalum Kri emphasised that awareness alone is insufficient and called for stringent action by all stakeholders within the framework of the law.
In his concluding remarks, the DC urged the public to report suspected drug-related activities to the nearest police station or District Administration. He also directed the Officer-in-Charge to ensure registration of FIRs in appropriate cases in accordance with the law.
The DC further requested Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to submit proposals suggesting Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for locally produced agricultural commodities for consideration.
Similar awareness programmes are scheduled at Govt Sec School, Yealiang on October 13 and at Community Halls in Loiliang and Tafragam on October 14, reinforcing the district's commitment towards a drug-free society. (DIPRO)