Anti-drug abuse & illicit trafficking day observed
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 26 2023:
Manipur units of Indian Psychiatry Society (IPS) and Indian Medical Association (IMA) joirttly observed the 'International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at IMA Hall in Lamphelpat on Monday.
Held on the theme "People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention", the observance was attended by IPS honorary secretary Dr Nelson Loitongbam, incoming president Prof K Shantiba-la Devi, outgoing president Dr S Manikanta Singh, and IMA president Dr Rk Lenin and honorary secretary Dr James Elangbam as presidium members.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Nelson pointed out that this year's theme is focused towards discussing the discrimination and stigma against drugs users and their families, help the youth to stay away from drugs abuse and put a stop to drug trafficking.
He then emphasised the need to sensitise the drug user community with regard to transmission of HIV, Hepatitis and other related infections.
During the observance, Dr S Manikanta spoke on the topic 'Promotion of Harm Reduction' and Dr Rk Lenin on 'Encouraging Youths for Prevention of Drug Abuse' .
Narcotics and Affairs of Border (NAB) Manipur also observed International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the NAB office on Monday with the participation of NAB senior SP K Meghachandra, OC, officers and personnel.
During the observance, the gathering took a pledge to extend cooperation with regard to prevention of drug abuse and spread awareness of the harmful effects of drugs.
Kanglei People Against Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (Kanglei Panas) also observed the Day at its Canchipur office on Monday, which was attended by Kanglei Panas president Elangbam Ibempishak Lei-ma, secretary general Wahaz Fundrei and Kanglei People's Confederation (KAPECON) chairman Ph Abe among others.
Speaking at the observance, E Ibempishak stressed on the need to sustain the 'War on drug' launched by the government under a specific policy as the problems and issues created by drug menace continue to spread Stating that Manipur has become a battlefield for drugs, she called upon all to join hands and fight against the drug menace to protect the people from the clutches of drug.