Assam Rifles, in collaboration with ‘Department of Social Welfare, Nagaland, organised the “Breaking the Silence” campaign on 29 August 2024 at Mokokchung district of Nagaland. This impactful event aimed to raise awareness about mental health and substance abuse, particularly among the youth.

The event featured prominent personalities including Miss Kenie Ritse, Miss Northeast 2023, and Miss Hikali Achumi, Miss Nagaland 2022, who collaborated with Assam Rifles through ‘KRIPA, ACTS Foundation’ and ‘Dept Of Social Welfare, Nagaland’, highlighted the importance of mental well-being and the dangers of substance abuse.

Assam Rifles, through this initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of the community, particularly in addressing issues that are affecting youth. The event provided a unique platform for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and take away essential knowledge and tools to contribute to a healthier and more resilient society.

The campaign was dedicated to fostering open discussions about mental health, dispelling myths surrounding substance abuse, and providing support to those in need. The involvement of all the departments has brought significant visibility and engagement to the campaign.

The campaign, which began its first phase on August 12 in Kohima, has now progressed to Mokokchung. It aims to reach various communities across Nagaland. Assam Rifles is committed to supporting the well-being of communities and proud to be part of the important effort to promote mental health awareness and combat substance abuse across Nagaland.

The event saw enthusiastic participation with a total of 763 attendees from various departments, including Assam Rifles, delegates of civil authorities, Deputy Commissioner & Superintendent of Police Mokokchung District, teachers, and students from colleges and schools in Mokokchung District.

Speaking at the program, Commandant 12 Assam Rifles, Colonel Rahul Gurung, Kirti Chakra spoke on the urgent need to address issues like mental health and substance abuse to save and safeguard the local communities. Mokokchung DC, Thsuvisie Poji, delivered a short speech. 

During the program, Miss Kenei Ritse, Miss Northeast, spoke about mental health and emphasised stress management, especially during exams and post-exam results, to the students.

A pledge was also administered by all the attendees led by Miss Hakali Achumi, Miss Nagaland 2022, under the initiative of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan pledge (Drug Free India).

The campaign was organised to encourage open conversations, challenge stigmas, and empower young minds to seek help without fear of judgement.

“Breaking the Silence” campaign underscores the critical need to address mental health and substance abuse, offering hope and support to those in need and inspiring positive action across the region.

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