BOMDILA, 25 Jun: West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar stated that drug abuse not only ruins the life of an individual but also has a devastating impact on families and society as a whole.
Addressing an awareness programme under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, conducted by the district administration in collaboration with the Police Department, at the school auditorium here on Thursday, the DC said that the government is deeply concerned about the growing threat of substance abuse, particularly among students and youths, and therefore such awareness programmes are being organised regularly.
Kumar urged students to come forward and inform their teachers or authorities concerned if they find anyone involved in drug consumption, so that timely intervention and support can be provided.
He also cautioned students against peer pressure, especially in higher educational institutions, where friends or acquaintances may encourage them to experiment with drugs.
“The pleasure derived from drugs is temporary, but the consequences can be lifelong,” he added.
The DC also administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge, calling upon students and citizens to actively contribute towards making the district and the nation drug-free.
Speaking on the vision of Viksit Bharat, Kumar emphasised the need to protect the younger generation from the menace of substance abuse.
Superintendent of Police Dorjee Wangdi Thongon stated that a drug addict should not be viewed as a criminal but as a victim who requires proper support, counselling and rehabilitation. At the same time, he stressed that drug peddlers, who profit by destroying the lives of young people, would be dealt with strictly under the law.
Appealing to students and youths to become the “eyes and ears” of the police, the SP highlighted various mobile applications through which citizens can confidentially report drug peddling and seek counselling support. He gave assurance that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.
The SP also spoke on the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and encouraged students to use the Choo-Manter app, an interactive platform that educates children about the POCSO Act, good touch and bad touch, and child safety through engaging games.
Assistant Commissioner Sangey Wangmu Mosobi stressed the importance of building a drug-free society.
Earlier, Bomdila Police Station Officer in-Charge Nima Tsering delivered a presentation on drugs and substance abuse. He explained various types of drugs, symptoms that may indicate drug use, and the physical, mental, and social consequences of addiction. He urged students to stay away from drugs and make informed life choices.
Another resource person, clinical psychologist from the Health Department, Kenju Pa, sensitised the students to mental health issues and the severe psychological and cognitive impacts of substance abuse.
Highlighting the importance of mental well-being, she encouraged students to openly discuss mental health concerns. She assured them that their personal information would remain confidential.
Students from various schools, police personnel, and officials from different departments attended the orientation programme. (DIPRO)
