SHILLONG, FEB 11: The Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) on Wednesday held a sensitization meeting with Village Defence Parties (VDPs) of Shillong City to bolster community participation in the fight against drug abuse.

The meeting focused on addressing stigma surrounding substance use disorders and promoting community-based rehabilitation as a sustainable response to the growing drug problem.

Mission Director Francis Kharshiing underscored the importance of grassroots collaboration, stating that VDPs play a crucial role in complementing the enforcement efforts of the Meghalaya Police.

Discussions highlighted the need to establish halfway homes within localities to support individuals recovering from substance dependence and to reduce the risk of relapse. VDP members were sensitized on engaging with Dorbar Shnongs to help address community concerns and facilitate the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for setting up such facilities.

The importance of vocational training was also emphasized as a preventive measure to create livelihood opportunities and reduce vulnerability to substance abuse.

Key areas of collaboration identified during the meeting included assisting law enforcement as witnesses in drug-related cases, coordinating during drug seizures and arrests, and strengthening information-sharing between communities and the police.

The session was addressed by Inspector E. Lamare, Officer-in-Charge of Madanrynting Police Station, and Inspector N. Koch, Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Police Station.

VDP members from Lawsohtun, Lumparing, Madanrynting, Demthring, Mawlai Iew-Rynghep, Lapalang, Nongthymmai, Mawlynrei Nongkrem, Mawlai Umjaiur, Umpling, Smit Pyllun and Nongrah, among other localities, participated in the meeting.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhance coordination between DREAM, the Meghalaya Police and VDPs to build safer and healthier communities and strengthen the State’s response to substance abuse.