Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 324/13

CONSULTATION MEET HELD

Shillong, June 26, 2013: Meghalaya Social Welfare Minister Smti Deborah C Marak inaugurated the Consultation Meet in observance of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Shillong Club, Shillong on 26th June 2013. The programme was organized by the Department of Social Welfare in co-ordination with the Regional Resource Training Centre, Kohima Nagaland and Partner NGOs including Kripa Foundation, Voluntary Health Association of Meghalaya, Manbha Foundation and New Hope Centre.

Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest Smti Deborah C Marak stressed for a fruitful discussion on the avenues of the state government which will be implemented in collaboration with the partner NGOs. Stating that drug abuse or substance abuse is a serious concern in this present world she called upon the officials of the department and partner NGOs to sensitize the school students and teachers about its ill-effects by conducting training and awareness programmes.

The minister also highlighted about the increase of drug addiction amongst children and women and the need for sensitization arises in these areas. The condition becomes worst with the inclusion of children about 6 to 7 years of age in the list according to 2008-09 statistics.

In his keynote address Dr. P. Ngully, Director, Regional Resource Training Centre (RRTC), Kohima, Nagaland briefed the participants about the common drugs used as substance abuse, causes and effects of drug abuse and presented the North East scenario with regard to the cases of drug abuse including the flow of drugs, supply reduction, harm reduction and way forward to bring to an end the causes of drug abuse in future generation.

The day long programme comprises of various sessions like “Drug Abuse amongst Children” by Dr. P Ngully, Director, RRTC and Dr. Pynhun Pakma, Clinical Psychologist, “Women – Drug Addiction and Co-dependency” by Dr. Rica Lamar, Project Director, Manbha Foundation, and “Role of Stakeholders and Integrated Approach” by Dr. P Ngully.

Press Release No. 325/13

SURVEY OF MANUAL SCAVENGERS

Shillong, June 26, 2013: The Joint secretary, Urban Affairs Department has informed that the Government of Meghalaya is undertaking survey of manual scavengers and insanitary toilets in the areas failing in all municipalities, Cantonment board and the town committee of Nongstoin, Mairang and Nongpoh.

The period for the survey has started and will complete on 28th August 2013.