SAGALEE, Dec 20: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW), Itanagar, in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), New Delhi, conducted a one-day state-level seminar on “Empowering Women: Combating Substance Abuse in Northeast India.” The event was held at the Assembly Hall of the Higher Secondary School in Sagalee and saw participation from over 150 attendees, including students, teachers, and local officials.
In her keynote address, APSCW Member Ms. Kago T Yasung highlighted the growing issue of substance abuse across Arunachal Pradesh and the nation. She emphasized the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures to combat this menace.
Shri Techi Serbang, ZPM, Sagalee, expressed his appreciation for the Commission’s efforts in organizing such awareness programs. He encouraged the participants to take full advantage of the seminar and advocated for similar initiatives across all districts of the state.
Addressing the students, Ms. Yame Higio, ADC, Sagalee, urged them to abstain from drugs, tobacco, and other harmful substances. She emphasized the importance of education and encouraged students to focus on their studies while actively engaging with the seminar’s resource persons.
APSCW Member Ms. Maya Pulu provided insights into the detrimental impact of substance abuse on health, family, and society. She called for collective efforts to address the issue at all levels.
Dr. Techi Jama, Medical Officer (Ayush), Sagalee, spoke about the link between mental health and substance abuse, elaborating on its effects on careers, families, and society. Similarly, Dr. Subham Singh from TRIHMS, Naharlagun, shared valuable information on life skills and drug education, equipping participants with practical knowledge to make informed choices.
Vice Chairperson of APSCW, Ms. Nabam Yahi Tad, emphasized the societal impact of substance abuse and motivated students to lead by example as future leaders of Sagalee. She also called on local community leaders, including the gaon burahs, to take strict action against the cultivation and use of drugs in the area.
The seminar concluded with active participation and a call for united action against substance abuse to ensure a healthier and more empowered society.
