State level network for drug users initiated
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, June 23 2011:
A state level network for drug users under the name and style Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE) comprising of community based groups of drug users of the state was initiated today in a function held at the Retreat House, Mantripukhri Imphal.
The network is an initiative facilitated by 365x6, a consortium comprising PRAXIS, Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) and REACH with support from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).
The launching function was graced by Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker I Hemochandra, MACS Project Director Nidhi Kesharwani as chief guest and president respectively.
Project Director, Orchid IHA Dr B Longjam and Executive Director, PRAXIS Tom Thomas also attended the function as special quest.
Speaking in the function, I Hemochandra said that drug use is a complex issue requiring intervention at various levels, involving people from different walks of life and organisations.
While partnership is vital it is equally important that community takes the lead, he added.
Nidhi Kesharwani said that for any intervention to be meaningful the effort has to come from within the community.
A common link is essential to identify best practices and region specific needs.
The network will ensure the required linkage and will go a long way as it has emerged from within the community.
Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, 365x6 is facilitating collectivization of vulnerable communities in Nagaland, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra.