Namchi awareness session against substance abuse

O.D. DEATHS CAN BE PREVENTED
NAMCHI, 26 June: An awareness programme was organized by the Police Department of Namchi in collaboration with NGOs like Hope Foundation, Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK), Sanjivini and Drivers’ Association (South) on the occasion of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the Namchi Indoor Stadium.
Project Director Mirakai and a mentor of Hope Foundation, KC Nima was the resource person of today’s programme. Speaking as a resource person, he deliberated on the main physical, mental, emotional and spiritual characteristics of a person addicted to drugs. Mr Nima sharing his 12 years of experience working with drug addicted patients informed that addiction of drugs in our society nowadays is a fatal disease which needs immediate treatment.
“It is easy to get in but difficult to come out”, stressed Mr Nima while addressing the students on drug addiction. He highlighted on the various vital signs and symptoms of a drug addict in his or her initial phase. He shared that anyone from any walk of life could catch this growing disease and therefore awareness on this issue is important in the society.
While talking on the common cause of death amongst drug addicts which is commonly known as OD (over dose), he informed that sometimes death of an addict can be prevented if the people around him are aware of helpful techniques which he physically demonstrated to the audience.
SP (South), Manoj Tewari informed the gathering on the recent cases of drug arrests in Temi and Melli and said that the South District Police Team is working tirelessly. President of Mainline Taxi Drivers Association Namchi, Arjun Rai stressed that strict action needs to be taken against those who are into the business of supplying, selling and even using these prohibited substances.
SHO Namchi Police Station, CB Basnet highlighted on SADA (Sikkim Anti Drugs Act) 2006 and the guidelines of Narcotics & Psychotic substances. While SDPO Namchi, Geege Norbu announced the award for the category of best and most creative banner and also for showcasing the most enthusiasm for today’s programme which was bagged by New Light Academy School, Namchi.
The main highlight of the programme was the anti drug abuse rally which was taken out from the Indoor stadium towards Jorethang road via Namchi bazaar and through the heart of the town, Central Park and back to the venue.
Chairman Tea Board, Gagan Rai was the chief guest on the day who also addressed the gathering earlier.