A significant awareness campaign was organized in Zunheboto by the District Administration, in collaboration with Assam Rifles and DHEW-BBBP 100 days campaign. The event focused on two critical issues: ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ (a national campaign against substance abuse) and mental health. The primary aim was to reach out to the most vulnerable section of society—the youth—and particularly focus on students.
Deputy Commissioner Rahul Bhanudas Mali (IAS) kicked off the event with a powerful opening remark. He highlighted that addiction is a major contributor to small to severe criminal activities, emphasizing that the only way out is to avoid all kinds of intoxicating substances. His words underscored the gravity of the issue and set the tone for the rest of the program.
Commandant Major Praveen Kumar Salotra of Assam Rifles served as a guest speaker. Drawing from his own state, Punjab, where substance abuse is rampant and out of control, he urged Nagaland not to head towards this menace before it spirals out of proportion. His example served as a stark reminder of what could happen if action is not taken promptly.
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Miss Northeast 2023, Kenie Ritse, spoke passionately about mental health. She highlighted various types of mental illnesses and raised points on stigmas and discrimination faced by those suffering from them. Her speech was punctuated by slogans aimed at breaking the silence around mental illness.
Miss Nagaland 2022, Hikali Achumi, also took to the stage as one of the star speakers. She focused on substance abuse, emphasizing that prevention is key. She noted that no one is born addicted but it always begins with that first taste. In conclusion, she administered slogans of ‘Breaking the Silence’ and pledged her support for ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.’
Apart from mental health and substance abuse, Director ACTS Bura Akum elaborated on blood donation during his speech at the campaign. This added another layer of awareness to an already packed agenda.
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Sakhi One Stop Centre highlighted assistances provided to women facing any types of violence. FLS DHEW Nguvito shed light on insights into Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme. SP Zunheboto Kupe Kapfo exhorted students to be wise and manage their time properly. The campaign was chaired by EAC Chinglem Konyak, while EAC Zunheboto Mhao Humtsoe delivered a vote of thanks.
The awareness campaign aimed at equipping both students and youth with essential knowledge about avoiding substance abuse and maintaining good mental health. By addressing these critical issues head-on, organizers hope to create a safer and healthier community for everyone involved.
