Yupia, Feb 12: A monthly district-level NCORD Committee meeting was convened at the DC Conference Hall, Yupia, under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Jiken Bomjen, to address various aspects of drug abuse and strategies for its prevention on Tuesday last.
The meeting reviewed the actions taken by stakeholders on issues raised during the previous session and deliberated on new measures to combat the drug menace in the district.
DC-cum-Chairman of NCORD, Jiken Bomjen, expressed deep concern over the societal impact of drug abuse, emphasising that the issue affects everyone in some capacity. He urged parents to monitor their children and advocated for preventive measures starting at home. The DC also recommended various awareness initiatives to be undertaken by the district administration.
ADC Sagalee, Higio Yame described drug abuse as a societal evil and proposed the formation of sector-level committees for a more localised approach to tackling the issue. She also reiterated the significance of NGO involvement in awareness and rehabilitation programs.
DySP Radhe Obing, representing the Superintendent of Police (S.P.), highlighted the widespread prevalence of drug abuse affecting all genders and economic groups. He outlined the challenges in tackling drug trafficking and its associated issues, such as prostitution and theft.
DySP Obing further disclosed that in 2025, three drug-related complaints had been filed, leading to the seizure of 650 grams of cannabis and 16 grams of heroin. He emphasised the critical role of community involvement and awareness in addressing the issue.
DMO Dr.Reena Ronya, informed the gathering about stringent monitoring of prescription medications to prevent misuse. She assured that no prescription drugs are being dispensed without valid prescriptions and that such transactions are closely tracked.
A representative from the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns and the need to support rehabilitation centers. She stressed the necessity of involving NGOs for a better understanding of the issue.
Tadar Hania of the New Hope Foundation, Emchi, Doimukh, called for enhanced collaboration between the police and administration to focus on both addicts and non-addicts. He recommended providing counselling services by psychologists in schools and jails.
Similarly, NgurangTaga of Avenue for Joint Counsel proposed training rehabilitated individuals in horticulture and agriculture to aid their reintegration into society.
Kipa Kanam of the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organization underscored the need for a dedicated Narcotics Department to separate addicts from criminal offenders. He advocated for strict penalties for drug suppliers and peddlers and suggested creating job opportunities for reformed addicts.