DIMAPUR: A drug trafficking and substance abuse awareness campaign was held at the Conference Hall of Police Baptist Church, Wokha, on August 28 with the objective of sensitising students and the public on the dangers of drug abuse, drug trafficking and tobacco consumption.
The programme was organised by DEF Wokha/ANTF Wokha in collaboration with Wokha District Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, District AIDS Prevention & Control Unit and District Tobacco Control Unit. Around 80 participants attended the programme.
According to PRO DEF Wokha, Addl. SP Wokha and Nodal Officer, ANTF Wokha, Biren Lotha spoke on drug trafficking and substance abuse, highlighting major drug hotspots, inter state movement of drugs and the need for greater awareness and vigilance among students and the community.
District Welfare Officer, Wokha, C. James Ezung explained different types of drugs, their effects and the meaning of drug abuse and intoxication. He encouraged students to share problems with trusted elders and seek help when facing difficulties, stressing the message of “Refuse, Resist and Report” as an approach to prevent drug abuse.
Speaking on the harmful effects of tobacco, Psychologist (NTCP), DH Wokha, Tshopeu Khutsoh discussed the composition of tobacco and its two broad forms-smoking and smokeless. She noted that there are around 274 million tobacco users worldwide, with India among the major tobacco producing countries. She sensitised students on the health consequences of tobacco consumption, including oral cancer, and reminded them of the prohibition on sale of tobacco products to persons below 18 years and within 100 yards of educational institutions.
Students were also informed about the availability of free treatment for tobacco users at Dr. Motsuo Memorial Hospital, Wokha, and encouraged to seek professional assistance.
The release added that an interactive session was conducted, allowing participants to raise questions and engage with resource persons. On the spot medical testing for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis was also carried out as part of the programme.
