Tura, May 8: Amid growing concerns over drug and substance abuse in Meghalaya, the District Social Welfare Office of West Garo Hills on Friday organised a training programme for Master Volunteers under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in Tura.
Around 50 volunteers from different parts of the Garo Hills region attended the programme held at the DRDA Conference Hall, where officials stressed the need for stronger community-level intervention to tackle addiction among youth.
The inaugural session was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Rosalinda D. Shira, Assistant Commissioner Meshwa Mawthoh and District Social Welfare Officer Madonna Onasis T. Sangma.
Officials said the volunteers would act as a bridge between the administration and local communities by leading awareness campaigns, identifying vulnerable individuals and supporting counselling efforts at the grassroots level.
During technical sessions, medical and legal experts discussed the physical, psychological and social impact of addiction. Psychiatrist Dr R.N. Sangma of Tura Civil Hospital highlighted the importance of a “three-pillar framework” focusing on prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.
Speakers identified peer pressure, stress and family-related issues as some of the major factors contributing to substance abuse among young people in the region. They also stressed the need to promote skill development, mental health awareness and healthier lifestyle choices.
A major focus of the training was the implementation of the “Dream Mission”, an initiative aimed at strengthening rehabilitation support systems and expanding rehabilitation networks across the region.
Volunteers were also trained to use the NMBA Mobile App for monitoring local trends related to substance abuse and coordinating community interventions more effectively.
Officials urged the volunteers to play an active role in protecting communities from the growing threat of drug abuse and its long-term social consequences.
Also Read: Meghalaya sets up judicial probe into Garo Hills violence linked to GHADC poll nomination row
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