Yupia, Feb 12: Papum Pare deputy commissioner Jiken Bomjen has raised grave concerns about the societal toll of drug abuse, emphasising that the issue impacts every individual, directly or indirectly.
Addressing a monthly district-level NCORD committee meeting at his office in Yupia on Tuesday, Bomjen urged parents to closely monitor their children and advocated for preventive measures beginning at home.
He proposed several awareness campaigns to be spearheaded by the district administration to curb the growing problem.
The meeting aimed to address various aspects of drug abuse and strategize its prevention. It also reviewed actions taken by stakeholders on issues discussed in the previous session and explored new measures to combat the crisis.
Sagalee ADC Higio Yame described drug abuse as a ‘societal evil’ and proposed forming sector-level committees to implement a localized approach. She also stressed the importance of involving NGOs in awareness and rehabilitation programs to tackle the issue effectively.
Deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Radhe Obing shed light on the widespread prevalence of drug abuse, which affects individuals across all genders and economic groups. He highlighted the challenges of tackling drug trafficking and its associated problems, such as theft and prostitution.
Obing revealed that three drug-related cases were registered in 2025, resulting in the seizure of 650 grams of cannabis and 16 grams of heroin. He emphasized the critical role of community awareness and participation in addressing the problem.
District medical officer Dr Reena Ronya assured the gathering of strict monitoring of prescription medications to prevent their misuse. She reported that no prescription drugs are being dispensed without valid prescriptions and highlighted ongoing efforts to track such transactions closely.
A representative from the women and child development department stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns and support for rehabilitation centers. The official also advocated for greater NGO involvement to understand the issue and provide necessary interventions.
Tadar Hania from the New Hope Foundation emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration between the police and administration. He proposed offering counseling services in schools and jails to help both addicts and non-addicts.
Ngurang Taga of Avenue for Joint Counsel suggested providing training in horticulture and agriculture to rehabilitated individuals, aiding their reintegration into society.
Kipa Kanam of the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organization called for the establishment of a dedicated narcotics department to separate addicts from criminal offenders. He stressed the need for strict penalties for drug suppliers and peddlers and recommended creating job opportunities for reformed addicts.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve among all participants to combat the drug menace through collaborative and community-driven efforts, ensuring a safer and healthier future for the district.
