ITANAGAR : To mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Police Headquarters (PHQ) Motor Transport (MT) Branch organised an awareness programme and rally at Chimpu on Thursday.

Students and faculty members of Amarjyoti Government Primary School, Chimpu, participated in the campaign aimed at promoting awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the need for collective action against illicit trafficking.

The programme was conducted under the supervision of Police Motor Transport Superintendent of Police Thinley Namge and attended by Amarjyoti Government Primary School Headmaster-in-Charge H. Tekwa, teachers, Motor Transport Officer Inspector R. Dakpa, Reserve Inspector M Mibang, MT Branch personnel and other participants.

State Mental Hospital Midpu Psychiatric Social Worker and mental health professional Dagrik Gara served as the resource person and highlighted the adverse impact of substance abuse on brain chemistry, mental health and physical well-being. He also sensitised participants on the long-term consequences of addiction and the importance of early intervention.

Addressing the gathering, Namge emphasised the significance of the observance in strengthening efforts towards a drug-free society. He spoke on the legal consequences of drug trafficking and substance abuse under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and urged young people to play an active role in community-based anti-drug initiatives.

He also informed participants about mechanisms for reporting illicit activities, including the Arunachal Pradesh Police WhatsApp Helpline (9362812717) and the 24×7 MANAS Mental Health Helpline (1933).

The programme concluded with the administration of an anti-drug pledge, reaffirming the participants’ commitment to combating drug abuse and promoting a healthy and responsible lifestyle.