DEOMALI, 25 Sep: Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik called for intensified efforts to combat substance abuse in Tirap district, and appealed for coordinated action towards the goal of a drug-free society, while contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

"Drug abuse is not merely an individual problem but a serious societal challenge affecting families and communities," the DC said, and called upon parents, community-based organisations, civil society, the general public and all other stakeholders to join hands with the district administration and the Police Department in the collective fight against drug abuse.

The DC made his remarks during a visit to the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre here on Friday, leading a delegation of the Tirap district-level Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD) to the centre to take stock of its functioning, infrastructure and rehabilitation activities.

The delegation also interacted with the inmates undergoing rehabilitation at the centre.

In his address, Tawsik urged the inmates and those who have successfully recovered from addiction to make positive changes in their lives and extend cooperation to law enforcement agencies in identifying and reporting drug peddlers and suppliers. He assured that information provided to the authorities would be handled with due confidentiality and in accordance with applicable procedures.

He encouraged those undergoing rehabilitation to remain committed to a drug-free life and become positive role models within their families and communities. He stressed the importance of timely intervention, counselling and rehabilitation for individuals struggling with substance abuse.

During the inspection, the DC commended chairperson Jangphua Tangjang and the entire team of the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre for their initiative and continued efforts to help persons affected by drug addiction return to normal and productive lives.

During the interaction, Soha CO Toko Kacha, Assistant Commissioner (Tax & Excise) Monika Lowang Medam, and BEO (Establishment) in-charge Monglin Mongwang spoke about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of sustained efforts towards recovery and rehabilitation.

They encouraged the inmates to remain committed to their recovery and rebuild healthy relationships with their families and society. They also advised those undergoing recovery to avoid peer groups associated with substance abuse and to engage themselves in positive and constructive activities with their families and communities.

District Medical Officer Dr Bimal Ratan expressed concern over the growing impact of substance abuse on individuals, families and society. He stressed the need to protect the younger generation from drug addiction and urged the youths to channelise their energy towards constructive and productive activities. He said that active participation of the youths is essential for building a healthier and stronger society, and called for collective efforts to combat substance abuse.

Tangjang briefed the team on the activities and achievements of the rehabilitation centre. He informed that the centre is undertaking two major interventions - detoxification and rehabilitation of persons affected by substance abuse, and targeted interventions relating to HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.

Since its establishment on 24 January, 2025, a total of 155 persons have undergone rehabilitation at the centre. Of these, 131 have successfully completed their rehabilitation programmes and are now leading normal lives with their families. At present, 24 inmates are undergoing treatment and counselling at the centre, which has two counsellors. One HIV positive patient is also receiving treatment at the facility, Tangjang informed.

The inmates also shared their personal experiences and journeys towards overcoming addiction.

Matphoa Wangsu informed that the rehabilitation centre is currently being run on a "self-help basis," without financial support from the government. He stated that, despite limited resources, the management is committed to providing free rehabilitation to around 7-8 inmates from economically weaker backgrounds on humanitarian grounds.

He expressed hope that the centre would receive government grant-in-aid in the future to strengthen and expand its rehabilitation services.

The delegation included SDPO R Khomrang, CDPO Chate Lowangcha, Deomali HDO Mocha Ajang, ADO Gimmem Boje and Dr Thenyak Matey. (DIPRO)