Gen (retired) VS Atem, Member of the NSCN (IM) Collective Leadership speaking at the 21st foundation day of Operation Salvage, on June 7, a rehabilitation centre for substance abuse, run and managed by the NSCN (IM) at Heningkunglwa village, Peren district. (Morung Photo)
Operation Salvage commemorates 21st Foundation Day
Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 7
Operation Salvage, the rehabilitation centre for substance abuse commemorated its 21st founding anniversary on June 7. The centre, based in Heningkunglwa village, Peren district, was started by the NSCN (IM) in 2002 on public demand amidst rising cases of substance abuse among the youth in and around the area. The centre currently has around 120 clients.
Gen (retired) VS Atem, Member of the NSCN (IM) Collective Leadership, was the chief guest at the programme, which also had guests from the Nagaland Baptist Church Council, Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation, Naga People's Movement for Human Rights, Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation and other civil society leaders.
In his address, Gen Atem acknowledged the presence of individuals, who may have faced a troubled past and experienced moments of despair. He encouraged them not to lose heart, emphasizing that temptations often befall those whom God wishes to uplift. “Maybe God has a plan and maybe he is trying to prepare you for the challenges that lie ahead,” he stated.
Citing reports of successful recoveries at Operation Salvage, he expressed optimism that many more will continue to be rehabilitated in the centre. According to him, the people who go out to the society from the centre after a successfully recovering should not be discouraged by the social stigma that comes with substance abuse. Sensible people will never leave you," he reassured, reminding them of the support they have from the community.
Addressing the challenges faced by Operation Salvage, particularly its congestion and lack of space, Gen Atem pledged the continued support of the NSCN (IM) leadership to sustain the centre. He urged the clients in recovery to remain steadfast, drawing inspiration from the restoration of King Solomon when one fears God.
David Perie, who played a key role in starting Operation Salvage and is now its Administrator, recalled how it came into being. It took shape on June 7, 2003, in response to a drug epidemic in the Jalukie area and appeal from the concerned parents of the area to the NSCN (IM) to address it. He said that Operation Salvage initially relied on voluntary support and functioned as a self-sustaining community. Over time, the center received assistance from the ZBCC and its affiliates. He added that, at present, the center's chaplain is sponsored by the ZBCC.
He said that denial and social stigma continue to be a big challenge against substance abuse. “The greatest challenge against drug addiction is denial. This is because of the social stigma associated with drug use. Removal of the stigma is paramount to fight substance abuse, which implies stronger networking among the community,” he said.
According to a staff at the centre, for admission of clients, a one-time registration fee of Rs 7000 is charged. On the length of stay, the staff informed that there is no set timeframe as it depends on the response of the client to rehabilitation process. He added that demand for admission into the centre has increased over the years.
