Anti-drugs day held with 'listen first' call
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, June 27 2017:
With the theme "Listen First � Listening to Children and Youth is the First Step to Help Them Grow Healthy and Safe," the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2017 was observed yesterday at GM Hall .
The event was jointly organised by Department of Social Welfare, Federation of Indian NGOs for Drug Abuse Prevention (FINGODAP) and Coalition Against Drugs & Alcohol (CADA) .
Health & Family Welfare L Jayantakumar, Social Welfare and Cooperation Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Education Minister Th Radheshyam graced the occasion as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively .
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, Health Minister L Jayantakumar highlighted the importance of observing the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to fight against drug users and drug traffickers .
He stressed on how the various departments under the Government of Manipur must coordinate to completely wipe out drug abuse and illicit trafficking and also to educate the society about its harmful effects .
"Will power plays a vital role in fighting drug abuse, usage of drugs or drug addiction; Without strong will power and cooperation from the people, it will be quite difficult to check such a social malady," he further said .
While delivering his presidential speech, Education Minister Th Radheshyam highlighted the significance of the theme of the event and stressed on the importance of 'listening' or 'being a good listener' to build a better relationship in the society .
As most of the people affected by drugs today are in the age group of 13/14 to 30 years, they should be given the chance to speak out their minds and one should listen to find out the causes .
He added that the problem of drug addiction cannot abolished by force or by moral policing, it can be done only through awareness programmes and support from near and dear ones .
Social Welfare and Cooperation Minister Nemcha Kipgen pointed out how Government plays a significant role to counter both drug trafficking and drug abuse and urged the families, institutions, civil society, and various organizations to cooperate and contribute their bit to get rid of such intoxicants .
As substance abuse and the illicit trafficking of drugs is a hindrance in the development of the society and a reason behind imbalanced lifestyle amongst most of the youth today, the Minister strongly advised the people specially students to stay away from intoxicants .
She said that people need to deal with addicts with love and understanding so as to prevent substance abuse before it is too late .
"We should all work hand in hand in making our State a substance abuse free State and also to develop a healthier community", she added .
As part of the celebration, prizes were distributed to winners of pledge writing and painting competitions which were held earlier in different schools.
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