Press Release
Press Release from Center for Addiction Medicine, Chuwatar
Information & Public Relations Department
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at Medhavi Skill University
The Center for Addiction Medicine, Chuwatar, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, organized an orientation program on Nasha Mukt Sikkim Abhiyaan at Medhavi Skill University on 19th September 2025.
Mr. Ram Kumar Tamang, Deputy Director, Social Welfare Department, served as one of the key resource persons. He deliberated on the concept of the Nasha Mukt Sikkim Abhiyaan, ongoing Sahayogi initiatives, and emphasized the urgent need to reduce the demand for drugs among students and within communities.
Dr. Satish Rasaily, Consultant and Addiction Medicine Specialist, Chuwatar, conducted an engaging interactive session with students and faculty. Participants posed thoughtful questions related to addictive disorders, the impact of drugs on the brain and body, myths surrounding cannabis, as well as mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Students also raised pertinent questions on how they can reach out and support friends who may be at risk of substance misuse.
Miss Sushmita Kharel led a Pledge Campaign, wherein all students and faculty members took a solemn pledge to contribute towards building a drug-free Sikkim.
Harmful Effects of Substance Use in Students
Substance use during the formative years of education can have serious and long-lasting consequences. Some of the key harmful effects highlighted during the session include:
1. Cognitive Impairment – Drugs and alcohol interfere with brain development, impair memory, reduce concentration, and affect decision-making abilities, leading to poor academic performance.
2. Mental Health Issues – Substance use increases vulnerability to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and in some cases, can trigger psychosis.
3. Physical Health Damage – Regular use harms vital organs such as the liver, heart, and lungs. It also lowers immunity, making students more prone to illnesses.
4. Addiction and Dependency – Early experimentation increases the risk of long-term addiction, making it difficult to quit later in life.
5. Behavioral and Social Problems – Substance use is linked to aggression, risky behavior, conflicts with peers and family, and social isolation.
6. Academic and Career Setbacks – Declining grades, absenteeism, and disciplinary issues can affect future career prospects.
7. Legal and Safety Risks – Drug use often leads to legal consequences, accidents, and unsafe situations, putting students’ lives and futures at risk.
The program concluded with a call for collective responsibility—students, faculty, parents, and communities working together to foster a healthy, drug-free learning environment. The initiative emphasized that prevention and early intervention are key to building a resilient and substance-free youth population in Sikkim.
The Center for Addiction Medicine, Chuwatar, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, organized an orientation program on Nasha Mukt Sikkim Abhiyaan at Medhavi Skill University on 19th September 2025.
Mr. Ram Kumar Tamang, Deputy Director, Social Welfare Department, served as one of the key resource persons. He deliberated on the concept of the Nasha Mukt Sikkim Abhiyaan, ongoing Sahayogi initiatives, and emphasized the urgent need to reduce the demand for drugs among students and within communities.
Dr. Satish Rasaily, Consultant and Addiction Medicine Specialist, Chuwatar, conducted an engaging interactive session with students and faculty. Participants posed thoughtful questions related to addictive disorders, the impact of drugs on the brain and body, myths surrounding cannabis, as well as mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Students also raised pertinent questions on how they can reach out and support friends who may be at risk of substance misuse.
Miss Sushmita Kharel led a Pledge Campaign, wherein all students and faculty members took a solemn pledge to contribute towards building a drug-free Sikkim.
Harmful Effects of Substance Use in Students
Substance use during the formative years of education can have serious and long-lasting consequences. Some of the key harmful effects highlighted during the session include:
1. Cognitive Impairment – Drugs and alcohol interfere with brain development, impair memory, reduce concentration, and affect decision-making abilities, leading to poor academic performance.
2. Mental Health Issues – Substance use increases vulnerability to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and in some cases, can trigger psychosis.
3. Physical Health Damage – Regular use harms vital organs such as the liver, heart, and lungs. It also lowers immunity, making students more prone to illnesses.
4. Addiction and Dependency – Early experimentation increases the risk of long-term addiction, making it difficult to quit later in life.
5. Behavioral and Social Problems – Substance use is linked to aggression, risky behavior, conflicts with peers and family, and social isolation.
6. Academic and Career Setbacks – Declining grades, absenteeism, and disciplinary issues can affect future career prospects.
7. Legal and Safety Risks – Drug use often leads to legal consequences, accidents, and unsafe situations, putting students’ lives and futures at risk.
The program concluded with a call for collective responsibility—students, faculty, parents, and communities working together to foster a healthy, drug-free learning environment. The initiative emphasized that prevention and early intervention are key to building a resilient and substance-free youth population in Sikkim.