Shillong, Jul 31 (ANI): The Social Welfare Department of the Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with the Drug Reduction Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), organised an Anti-Drugs Awareness Programme titled ‘Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs’ on Friday in Shillong. The event, which aimed to foster a resilient, healthy, and drug-free Meghalaya through community involvement, youth engagement, and systemic intervention, was held under the patronage of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
Actor John Abraham attended the programme along with Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya, Social Welfare Department. During an interactive session, both highlighted the significant role of sports and youth development in the region. Abraham expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, calling him “one of the nicest human beings,” and shared his fondness for Shillong and the wider Northeast. Referring to the area as the “hotbed of football,” he announced plans for a new football academy set to open in the next two years, hoping to see “a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast.” Addressing students’ questions on avoiding negative influences and substance abuse, Abraham promoted a disciplined, substance-free lifestyle grounded in strong values.
Bah Paul Lyngdoh spoke optimistically about Meghalaya’s rapid progress, referencing the upcoming football academy, the construction of India’s largest stadium in Shillong, and significant investments in social and youth sectors. He asserted that the region is “poised for a future brighter than the sun.”
A van dedicated to the Asha Bhavan Rehab Centre in Tura was inaugurated by dignitaries. The vehicle, driven by the Social Welfare Department and supported by the DREAM Mission, aims to support the state’s ongoing drug reduction and elimination initiatives.
John Abraham was honoured at the event alongside Recovery Champions, including the state’s youngest recovery champion. Saloni Verma, IAS, Director of the Social Welfare Department, delivered the welcome address, describing the programme as a “powerful symbol of the government’s united stance against all forms of substance abuse,” with a focus on prevention, recovery, and hope.
She expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his visionary leadership and highlighted the state’s efforts through the DREAM Mission, launched in 2022. She encouraged young people to find inspiration in John Abraham’s commitment to fitness and discipline, emphasising that “true victory lies in building a resilient body and mind that can contribute meaningfully to society.”
Through initiatives like ‘Pulse of the Hills,’ the Government of Meghalaya continues to advance its multisectoral approach to ensure every beat of the state embodies hope, health, and a firm stance against drugs.
