Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 9/25

CBC SHILLONG'S AWARENESS PROGRAMME UNDERSCORES THE IMPORTANCE OF FIGHTING AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Central Bureau of Communication Shillong organized two informative awareness programmes on the harmful effects of substance abuse under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan the initiative organised in Pathau and Markasa in Eastern West Khasi Hills sought to educate participants on the growing issue of substance abuse and associated health hazards.

The first programme was organised at Pariong PHC in Pathew Village where villagers gathered early in the morning led by the headman Shri A Marngar Dr. L.S.L Kharkongor incharge of the PHC shared his concerns about the growing prevalence of drug abuse in the region warning of its far-reaching consequences Drug abuse is not just an individual problem it affects families communities and society as a whole he said Dr Kharkongor stressed the urgent need for holistic approaches that prioritize not only rehabilitation but also prevention and awareness campaigns.

Sri E Marbaniang, SI of Mairang Police Station dealt with the subject of drug abuse and the prevention measures Sri Marbaniang discussed the ill effects of drug abuse legal punishments and the need for parental vigilance He said that consumption of drugs like opium ganja and other items are very harmful for our lives The side effects of drug abuse have a direct impact on our physical and mental health He said that in order to avoid the ill effects of drug abuse we should understand our responsibilities and adopt a healthy lifestyle Besides he added that for the eradication of drug menace from the society public cooperation is necessary and stressed upon the participants to share all such information related to drug addicts as well as drug peddling in their respective areas so that police can act swiftly.

The Bureau's initiative is part of a broader effort by the government to tackle the issue of drug addiction and foster a drug free society through education intervention and community action Importance of cleanliness and sanitation was also discussed in the programme under the banner Swachhata Hi Seva by Smt Susanna L Lyngkhoi Block Coordinator SBMG Mawthadraishan Block Smt Lyngkhoi emphasized the importance of stopping plastic waste burning She also discussed in detail the importance of digging soak pits for sewage disposal and individual responsibility in maintaining cleanliness.

Similar programme was held at the Dorbar hall of Community Hall Markasa Village with the aim of promoting cleanliness and combat drug abuse Assistant Teacher of Shri D L Marsianbai appreciated the efforts of CBC Shillong is organising such awareness programmes in an interior village like Markasa and not restricting such initiatives to urban areas only Shri Marsianbai opined that when a person falls victim to addiction it is not just their life that is at stake the ripple effects are felt throughout their family their community and the entire society He urged for continued support of every individual in the society that addresses both the social and personal impacts of substance abuse.

The Bureau also organised dance and quiz competitions as part of the programme and the winners were awarded cash prizes Winners of Dancing competition are 1st Albansa L Marshillong 2nd Jubarihun Iawphniaw 3rd Dathewlang L Lyngkhoi and 4th Daphin Sharai Iawphniaw.

A plantation drive was also undertaken under the banner Ek Per Maa Ke Naam A short cleaning drive was also conducted followed by a thank you note from Shri Josephas Thongni The event concluded with a photo session capturing the joy and enthusiasm of the participants.