Officials and participants during the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed at Red Cross Complex, organised by Kripa Foundation Nagaland on June 24.
Dimapur, June 25 (MExN): Joint Director for Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) Dr Bernice D Thapru has said that the primary prevention on use of illicit drug abuse was to educate people and become advocate for others.
She was addressing the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed at Red Cross Complex, organised by Kripa Foundation Nagaland on June 24.
She said as representatives of NGOs or as general public, we can simply do speak about it within our circle by telling our friends, family, neighbours and loved ones that using drugs is not a fashion.
While those who are already into drugs can seek help, the facilities are all there, the rehabs, treatments, professional counsellors, a press release stated.
Thapru also mentioned about reaching out to schools to educate the ill effects of drug use as they are at the most vulnerable age.
She encouraged that when people in one's area such as women, student unions or youth wings are talking about drug abuse, the representatives should also be the one telling them how to approach it holistically with a human touch in it and added that since it is a disease which cannot be addressed by force, we need to handle it with care.
She urged the stakeholders to continue with commitment and zeal so our society lives a drug free life.
Meanwhile, Renbonthung discussed about developing Person to person strategy with the existing facilities.
He encouraged organizing of awareness programmes in schools, youth programmes and develop leadership skills.
Renbonthung also mentioned about the coming of second wave of drug abuse in our state in the form of sunflower drug as it has become very common among young adolescents and school going students.
Abou Mere delivered concluding remark and stated that by investing on prevention we can save people from HIV, drug overdose, legal harm, mental health problem among others.
The event was compered by Khrievotsonuo Terhase and special song was presented by Lovili Swu. A pledge taking was led by Meghraj Lama.
