Statement on International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking 2014 at Khurai

June 26, 2014

The International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking 26th June 2014, Conference Hall Nirvana foundation, Khurai lamlong Bazar. The International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking observation was held today at the Conference Hall Nirvana foundation, Khurai lamlong Bazar, Imphal East with Sobhana Sorokhaibam as the chief Guest and Laishram Jonita as President respectively.

Including youths, Social Workers and people of different profession altogether around hundreds of people were attending the observance function. The observance focused attention to young people and drug abuse. The aim of the International Day against Drug abuse and illicit trafficking is to mobilize support and to inspire people to act against drug use.

The campaign encourages young people to put their health first and not to take drugs the main message of the observance is “drug abuse disorder are preventable and treatable” The main part of the observation was the discussion on how the young people can overcome themselves from the menace drug and the following points was highlighted as the most important area where the young people should always prepare to response

1. Think about where you stand on issues like sex, drugs and alcohol. Prepare by thinking through how you want to respond and behave in situations where these things come up.

2. Nobody should have to justify a decision not to take drugs. Whether you have a strong personal commitment, or just don\'t want it this time, your choices are your business.

3. If you’re offered drugs you don’t want, say no firmly but clearly and without making a big deal about it. If they try to persuade you, humour can be an effective way to deal with the situation.

4. Having the strength to say “no” can be hard. However, it also feels good to stick with what you believe in. Explaining to people in a calm way why you don’t want to be part of some- thing may earn you respect from others.

5. Finding out about the different drugs, from the effects to the risks involved, can help you resist pressure. As you’re under- standing grows, so will your confidence.

6. It’s natural to want to fit in with friends. After all, nobody likes to stand out from the crowd for the wrong reasons. We need to feel that we belong. Still, although they may not show it immediately, your friends will respect you more if you’re clear about what you want and what you don’t want to do.

7. It might not seem like it, but you’re not the only one worrying about what other people think of you. Try to focus on your own opinion of yourself—in the end, that’s all that matters.

8. Peer pressure is often a way for people to seek approval for their own behaviour. Do you really want to get involved to help justify someone else’s drug use? .

The Theme of the observance was well translated in the key note given by L Saroj Kumar, Project Manager Riac project and the need of strong commitment on the issue was highlighted by the different talkers. The main contributor to the meeting are H Devlaxmi Project Manager FIDU/TI, Sobhana Sorokhaibam Secy. Nirvana Foundation, Tomba Yumnam LS Co-0rdinater and Naobi wangkheirakpam District Resource Person Program LWS Imphal East and The observance was more fulfil with experience sharing by some drug dependent young peoples and problem faced in their life as a drug user

Wangkheirakpam Naobi Singh
District Resource Person,
Program LWS/IE
On behalf of Nirvana Foundation Imphal