Singjamei SDPO calls for public involvement in curbing drug menace
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 04 2024:
Singjamei Sub-Divisional Police Officer K Sunderbala has called for public involvement especially parents & school authorities in curbing the menace of drugs and HIV/AIDS in the State.
K Sunderbala made the appeal during the 1-Day HIV/AIDS Awareness Programme organised by Service Recreation & Organisation of Youths (SROY) under the sponsorship of Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) at Singjamei Thongam Leikai today.
Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, K Sunderbala said, "Drug addiction is really a social menace which makes many youngsters end up in distress.
Hence, every section of the society must strive together now to prevent our children from falling prey to drugs" .
Citing easy availability of drugs, unemployment and dejection as some of the major causes for the high prevalence of drug abusers in the State, Sunderbala expressed her disappointment on the Manipuri society being remained vulnerable to the drug menace for prolonged years.
The SDPO also encouraged school authorities and local clubs to take up initiatives for drug prevention & intervention with active participation of the students and youths.
Addressing the gathering as a guest of honor, MACS Joint Director (CST) Dr H Diamond claimed that the transmission of HIV/AIDS among the intravenous drug users in the State has declined from 76 percent to 10 percent in recent years as the outcome of the concerted efforts of MACS and NGOs.
He conveyed that the State has also set the target to achieve zero transmission of AIDS/HIV by 2030 .
Stating that a person with HIV/AIDS can lead a qualitative life by getting ART (Antiretroviral Therapy), Diamond encouraged the people who have suspicion about HIV infection to know their HIV status and avail the benefits of the free ART program taken up by MACS.
Highlighting the routes of HIV transmission, he urged all to not discriminate against HIV/AIDS infected persons as the virus is not transmitted from human contact.
The Joint Director further sought cooperation from the public in fighting HIV/AIDS and drug menace in the State.
SROY vice president Ng Indrakumar, former president Th Ratankumar and many senior citizens of Singjamei Thongam Leikai also attended the event.