Namchi, May 21 (IPR): An awareness programme under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was organised by the Office of the SDM Namchi in collaboration with the Taxi Drivers’ Association Namchi at the Meeting Hall of Taxi Plaza, Namchi, today.
The programme aimed to sensitise participants to the harmful effects of substance abuse and promote awareness of leading an addiction-free and healthy lifestyle.
Addressing the gathering, SDM Namchi, Mr Wangyal Sherpa, highlighted the objectives and implementation of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi.
He informed that the campaign has been actively implemented across the country to raise awareness about the harmful consequences of substance abuse and to encourage healthier and more responsible lifestyles, particularly among the youth.
He further emphasised the importance of protecting individuals from the influence of all forms of substance abuse and underscored how addiction adversely affects not only individuals, but also families, livelihoods, and society as a whole.
SI Police Ms Sangeeta Khatiwada elaborated on how substance abuse can be tackled through a three-pronged approach comprising supply reduction, demand reduction, and treatment and rehabilitation measures.
Stressing the crucial role of stakeholders in society, she urged the public to remain vigilant, promptly inform the police about suspicious activities related to substance abuse and drug smuggling, and extend cooperation in combating the menace effectively.
She also shared instances where alert citizens, particularly drivers, assisted the police in apprehending individuals involved in drug smuggling activities.
AMVI Motor Vehicle Ms Harka Maya Rai spoke on the consequences of addiction on both physical and mental health and highlighted the importance of community support in building a safer, healthier, and addiction-free society. She urged participants to act as responsible citizens and called upon everyone to guide and support youth and substance abusers towards positive and productive paths in life.
General Secretary of the Taxi Drivers’ Association Namchi, Mr Kamal Chettri, also stressed that building a drug-free society requires positive behavioural change, healthy lifestyles, counselling, and sustained awareness initiatives.
Similarly, NGO Member of Revive Heaven Foundation Rehabilitation & Detoxification Centre, Mr Tenzing Dadul, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in addressing substance abuse. He advocated for skill development programmes for substance abusers to help them reintegrate into society and lead self-reliant lives. He further encouraged students to pursue their passions and engage in constructive and productive activities, steering them away from the influence of substance abuse towards a more responsible and meaningful way of life.
During the programme, the SDM Namchi also administered the pledge of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to all participants.
Among those present were President of the Main Line Taxi Drivers’ Association Namchi, Mr Prem Pradhan, General Secretary Mr Kamal Chettri, President of Namchi Local Taxi Drivers’ Association Mr Subash Tamang, President of the Truck Drivers’ Association Mr Nim Palzor,AMVI Motor Vehicle Ms Manju Gurung, HA Social Welfare Department Mr B B Rasaily, NGO members of Revive Heaven Foundation Rehabilitation and Detoxification Centre, Kitchi-Dumra, teachers and students of New Light Academy and executive members of various drivers’ associations from the district.