DIMAPUR: Akehda Amulung Kiphire, the Implementing Support Agency for the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), conducted an awareness programme along with a plantation drive at PM SHRI Government High School, Yangphi, Kiphire, on May 25.
The main session, held under the theme “Say No to Drugs – Yes to Life”, was conducted by Kedorianuo Sirie, psychologist at DMHP, District Hospital Kiphire. She stressed that safeguarding life, dignity and the future is a collective responsibility, while expressing concern over the rising issues of tobacco use and substance abuse in Nagaland.
Highlighting that addiction includes tobacco, alcohol and drugs, she cautioned that many individuals fall into substance use due to peer pressure and social influence. She noted that tobacco consumption in Nagaland ranks among the highest in the country, driven by easy availability, unemployment and social factors. Sirie encouraged students to make positive choices through sports, faith based fellowship and supportive friendships, reminding them that “one right decision can lead to a better future.” The programme was led by Irothe T. Sangtam, with invocation prayer by Maria Rudy Thonger, president of Evangelical Graduate Fellowship, Kiphire, welcome address by Lipiri Sangtam, assistant headmaster, and closing remarks by T. Ariba, chairman of Akehda Amulung.
A plantation drive followed, with Longtili C. Sangtam, founder of Akehda Amulung, thanking the Forest Department for providing saplings and describing the planted trees as symbols of Kiphire’s youth. The 30 Assam Rifles also participated, underscoring the importance of collaborative community efforts.
The programme concluded with the message “Say No to Drugs – Yes to Life” and highlighted the National Toll Free De addiction Helpline: 14446.
