Ukhrul combats drug abuse with music, comedy
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, October 17 2023: In a remarkable move, Ukhrul town took a unique approach to combating drug abuse with the power of music and comedy.

On Tuesday, Ukhrul NGOs and relevant government agencies District AIDS Control Society (DACO), Ukhrul and Ukhrul Police Department teamed up with a group of Tangkhul artistes to stage a one-day Open-air Awareness Campaign to spread the message about drug abuse and its consequences.

The day-long campaign was jointly organised by DAPCU, Ukhrul Police Department, WCAD, LWS/SPYM, CARE, PASDO & SNM Ukhrul & Kamjong districts.

Dr Yuithingla Vashum of DACO, Ukhrul and Thotrei Ruivah of WCAD flagged off the campaign at Dungrei Junction, Hungpung.

A series of similar mobile awareness campaigns were held back-to back at various other locations including Ava Market, 6th MR Gate and Wino Bazaar in the town.

The event featured a range of performers, including stand up Tangkhul comedian Pakmi Mahung, singers Thangmeiso Shinglai, Oshim Shokwungnao, Nimshimphi Muivah and Ngathingpam Tangva.

Equipped with music and comedy performances by the artistes, the campaign conveyed the message to the public about the negative impacts of drug abuse.

With their performances, the artistes and the NGOs were able to reach out to people of all ages and backgrounds, including school students who were drawn to the campaign.

The stand-up performances of Pakmi Mahung kept the spectators entertained with his rib-tickling jokes and anecdotes.

He captured the audience's attention and informed them of the risks associated with drug abuse.

In his typical anecdote, Pakmi said that drug abuse is nothing but desecration of God-given healthy mind, body and soul.

"But don't lose heart, there's always a way for any drug abuse victim who has come and submitted himself to God, " he exhorted.

Through their melodic voices and uplifting lyrics about the dangers of drug abuse, the singers contributed to the cause by performing powerful and meaningful songs that carried a strong message that drug is not the answer to one's problems in life.

During the event, the artistes implored the public to take a stand against drug abuse instead of slipping further into its destructive clutches.

The organisers also distributed pamphlets informing the public about the risks of drug abuse, drug overdose, early signs of drug users and the offences and penalties as per the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substance (NDFS) Act, 1985 for better understanding of the message being conveyed and for people to become more aware of the harm that comes from drug abuse.

They further informed that rehabilitation centres for drug addicts are available at Born Again, Meizailung; Hope & Healing, Khuilungtang; and Life Care Treatment & Rehabilitation Centre, Lungshangkong in the district.

Opioid substitution therapy treatment (OST) centres are also available at Kamjong District Hospital, Ukhrul District Hospital, Sinakeithei OST Satellite and Kasom Khullen OST Satellite, they informed.

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