International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 26 2013: Like in other parts of the world International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed today with the Government, NGOs working in the field and Assam Rifles units organising observance functions.

This year the observance theme is 'Make health Your New high in Life, Not Drugs'.

At Lamyanba Shanglen, Palace Compound the event was organised by Department of Social Welfare with Principal Secretary (Social Welfare/RD) Barun Mitra, Joint Secretary (Social Welfare) H Rupachandra Singh and Deputy director (Social Welfare) SA Shishak gracing the observance function as the chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

The event was also jointly observed by District social Welfare Office, Tamenglong and NGOs at Noney bazar where a public rally against drug-abuse and illicit trafficking was also taken out.

At Yangoiningthou community hall, Bishnupur the observance function was held under the aegis of Committee Against Drugs and Alcohol.

Intll Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed

Anti-drug campaigner All Manipur Anti Drug Association (AMADA) too observed the day at Manipur Press Club, wherein former MLA Okram Joy Singh and AMADA president M Padamini Leima were the chief guest and functional president respectively.

While speakers elaborated on the harmful impacts of drug/substance abuse and renewed calls for extensive campaign to curb the menace, conferment of 'The Marvel' award to Manipur Police Department Inspector Kangjam Ranjit of Malom Mayai Leikai was the main highlight of the observance.

In his address as the chief guest, O Joy categorically stated that until and unless problems concerning drug abuse, corruption and law & order could be effectively tackled Manipur would continue to suffer.

Pointing out that materialistic progress or infrastructure development initiated by the Government would be of no utility in case the future generations continue to suffer from the impact of drugs or substance abuses, the former Langthabal AC legislator emphasised pro-active contribution of the civil society in shielding the youths from the malaise of substance abuse.

Contrary to longevity of the citizens' life-span being the global yardstick to determine progressive status of a nation in Manipur some security force personnel and individuals holding responsible posts indulging in drug smuggling is a serious cause for concern as such activities amount to compromising health, security and safety of the common people especially the younger generations, said O Joy.

Applauding law enforcement agencies for rounding up rogue elements in the security establishment, the veteran politician reminded that wealth amassed by endangering the citizens' lives would have its own perilous consequences upon the perpetrators.

Regretting Manipur being gradually transformed into a trade smuggling route, Joy called upon the people to remain vigil and relentlessly campaign against illegal drug traders as well as abusers.

Among others, Superintendent of Narcotics Control Bureau (Imphal Regional Unit) RK Ibungosana and Deputy Director (PH) of Medical Directorate Dr K Komolini also attended the event.

The day was also observed by Muaythai Federation of India, Nambol Police Station, Nirvana Foundation (South Babupara) and District Social Welfare Officer (Bishnupur) at their respective office premises.

Awareness campaigns, medical camps and painting/slogan competitions for students were organised as a part of the observance.

As part of the observance, 40 Assam Rifles, 30 AR, 15 AR and 18 Sikh of 9 Sector AR organised different events including lecture sessions, awareness programmes and rallies spreading the message of anti-drug at Haoreibi, Phundrei, Thoubal, Yairipok and Lilong Haoreibi areas in association with local organisations.