(Churches, communities urged to join fight against drug menace)

Friday, June 26, 2026 (Nokinketer News): In a continued effort towards the observance of Nasha Mukt Bharat Saptah, the culmination programme of weeklong activities creating awareness to address substance abuse, commemorating the “International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking”, was convened at the DC’s Conference Hall, Mokokchung, on 26th June 2026. 

Speaking on the occasion, DC Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, stated that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) is one of the most important pillars of Viksit Bharat. He stressed the different dimensions of the drug issue, including supply and demand. Underscoring the importance of awareness and rehabilitation centres, DC said that the government alone cannot tackle this crisis. He urged social institutions like the churches to come forward in raising more awareness and providing rehabilitation support, advocating for a collective fight against drug abuse.

Senior Superintendent of Police Vesupra Kezo highlighted the severe impacts of drugs on individuals, families, society, crime, and law and order. Stating that awareness is the key to combating this menace, Kezo briefed the gathering on the NDPS Act of 1985. He reminded attendees that police verification is mandatory for jobs and passport applications, urging everyone to stay away from drugs.

The programme was organised under the theme “NMBA: Viksit Bharat ke Pehchaan” and chaired by Keneinguzo Sekhose, NCS (P). The event began with an invocation by Imtisunep Pongen, followed by a welcome address from Neithozo Theunuo, EAC.

During the event, Chungpongchila, an OST Counsellor, spoke on “Drug Addiction: Symptoms and Availability of Treatment”. Other highlights included a solo song by Apensala from PM SHRI Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) and a short address by T. Nungsangmanen Aier, Master of Theology. Merentoshi Changkiri, a student from PM SHRI Mayangnokcha GHSS, also delivered a speech on the “Role of Youth in Building a Drug-Free Society”.

The DC and Sr.SP distributed prizes and certificates to the winners and participants. The programme concluded with a collective Drug-Free Pledge and a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Commissioner and Nodal Officer of NMBA, Mokokchung, Dr. Madhavi R, IAS.

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