Shillong, June 26, 2025 — Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, today, attended the state-level observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the State Convention Centre, Shillong organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with Meghalaya Police, Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, and the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM). The event brought together leaders, frontline workers, and communities under the theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for All.”

In his keynote address, the Chief Minister laid out a strong, visionary roadmap to tackle the drug menace in Meghalaya. He emphasized that the government is committed to not only enforcement but also to holistic recovery, involving health systems, education, youth engagement, and strong community partnerships. He stated, “We cannot look at this as just a law enforcement issue. It is a public health, social and developmental issue. DREAM is our mission to fight this together — as a state, as a people.”

The Chief Minister also outlined the state’s achievements in law enforcement, sharing that in the past three years, the Meghalaya Police has seized over ₹1,000 crores worth of narcotics including heroin, ganja, opium and crystal meth. A total of 1,031 drug cases have been filed and more than 422 have already been charge-sheeted. Specialized units like the ANTF are being further strengthened, and new tools, such as drug scanners and trained canine squads, are being introduced.

He urged every citizen — educators, community leaders, NGOs, and families — to come together in this fight. “Let us not point fingers. Let us join hands. The youth of Meghalaya are our greatest asset, and we will not allow drugs to rob them of their future. We will fight this battle together — and we will win.”

Before concluding his speech, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma led the gathering in a solemn pledge as part of the National Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

The government’s flagship programme — the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM) — is a comprehensive, multi-sectoral initiative that addresses both the supply and demand side of substance abuse. Under DREAM, the government has committed ₹50 crores over five years to support rehabilitation centres, especially those run by faith-based and community-led organisations. Additional funds will be mobilised as needed. Through DREAM, the government is working closely with village councils, youth clubs, SHGs, and faith-based institutions to raise awareness, support treatment and rehabilitation, and ensure no one is left behind.

As part of DREAM’s community-based strategy, the government also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM), a reputed national organisation. The partnership aims to create customised toolkits and training modules for schools, teachers, local communities and NGOs to build an informed, drug-resilient society.

Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, speaking as Guest of Honour, reinforced the government’s multi-pronged approach. He praised the Meghalaya Police for dedicating the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) exclusively to drug enforcement and highlighted the introduction of preventive-detention provisions under the NDPS Act for repeat traffickers. Calling for community solidarity, he said, “We need every ward and every dorbar to become a nerve-centre of vigilance and compassion. This fight is not ‘us versus them’; it is ‘all of us versus drugs’.”

He also invoked a powerful local reference — recalling how a Swiss couple built the historic Pinewood Hotel just one year after the 1897 earthquake devastated the region — as a reminder of Meghalaya’s resilience and ability to rebuild stronger. He urged communities in places like Cantonment, Mawlai, and other vulnerable areas to come together, not just to enforce but to heal.

Adding a clinician’s perspective, Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Pakha Tesia delivered an expert talk on “Understanding Addiction: From Triggers to Treatment.” He underscored that addiction is a brain disorder with biological, psychological and social dimensions, and called for integrated care. “Medication stabilises the brain, but counselling, life-skills training and family support complete the recovery circle,” he noted, urging early intervention in schools and the expansion of community-run rehab facilities under DREAM.

One of the most emotional and powerful moments of the programme was the testimony of Isaac Surong, a young recovery champion who shared his journey from childhood substance use to heroin addiction and finally, to healing and purpose. His story of hitting rock bottom, surviving dangerous relapses, and reclaiming life through faith, support groups and rehabilitation moved the audience deeply. The Chief Minister, visibly moved, said, “Isaac’s story is one of hope, courage and the human spirit. We will continue to walk with him and others like him.”

The event also celebrated over 20 Recovery Champions who have overcome addiction and now serve as beacons of hope in their communities.

Community Champions and grassroots organisations, including Life Care Foundation, United A’chik Society for Serving and Building the Nation, Japang NGO, A’chik Baptist Krima IV (Tura), Ka Lympung Ki Seng Kynthei, and U-Matters Multipurpose Cooperative Society, were also honoured for their contributions in prevention, outreach and rehabilitation.

Winners of awareness-building activities such as football and basketball tournaments and the Cycle Rally for Recovery were felicitated during the programme, which also featured musical and dramatic performances, expert talks, and interactive sessions with youth and social workers.