News & Announcement
Nasha Mukt Sikkim programme was held at Chintan Bhawan
Gangtok, July 2 (IPR): ‘Nasha Mukt Sikkim, a step towards a drug-free Sikkim’ programme was held at Chintan Bhawan, today. With the theme “The Evidence is Clean: Invest in Prevention," the campaign will run for the whole year. Mr Mingma Norbu Sherpa, Speaker, SLA, graced the program as the chief guest. He was accompanied by Mr. Samdup Lepcha, Minister, Social Welfare Department, Mr. Arun Kumar Upreti, Minister, RDD & Cooperation Department, Mrs. Pamin Lepcha, MLA-cum-Advisor Social Welfare Department, Chief Secretary Mr. Vijay Bhusan Pathak, and Mrs. Sarika Pradhan, Secretary Social Welfare Department.
Organized by the Social Welfare Department, the program also had the presence of a Deputy Speaker, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, elected representatives, DGP, Principal Secretaries, HoDs of different departments, Sr. SP, DCs from all districts, SDMs, BDOs from different districts, medical officers, dignitaries, stakeholders and Officials from different departments.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest said that drug use is an issue of paramount importance to society that has devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities undermining the social fabric. He stated that education and awareness are the first lines of defense against drug abuse and the government is committed to implementing comprehensive educational programs aimed at informing youth about the ill effects of drug use. He emphasized the pivotal role of civil society, school education, and family in combating drug abuse, particularly among the youth underscoring that youth are the treasure of society and need proper guidance.
He expressed that the government’s approach to controlling drug use is multifaceted and requires the collective effort of government agencies, law enforcement, healthcare providers, community organizations, and every citizen.
In addition, he highlighted that government action alone is not enough, it needs the active participation of every citizen, community support, educator, and religious leader to create an environment that fosters recovery and resilience.
He shared his school experiences, emphasizing the importance of learning from each other’s life lessons. He underscored the need for both state and non-state actors to collaborate in combating this societal menace. He asserted that families and schools bear the primary responsibility of guiding children, ensuring they follow the right path. He highlighted that drug abuse is the root cause of numerous social, mental, and physical problems and urged everyone to take responsibility and say no to drugs.
Mr Samdup Lepcha, Minister Social Welfare Department in his address said that the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign is multi-faceted and designed to sustain momentum throughout the year, requiring the wholehearted support of all stakeholders to eradicate the drug menace from our state. He stated that the alarming increase in drug use, especially among the youth, threatens this tranquillity. To counter this, we need a well-knit Anti-Drug Strategy, he added.
He pointed out that stricter regulations and enforcement are vital to curb the sale and distribution of drugs. He added that increased patrolling and surveillance in areas prone to drug activities, along with enhanced cooperation between local law enforcement and community organizations, will help reduce the drug menace.
He also suggested engaging youth and encouraging them in sports, arts, and other constructive activities.
Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of more rehabilitation centers to provide treatment and support for those battling addiction. He also urged the stakeholders to provide timely counseling services and helplines to provide immediate assistance and relief. He expressed that by fostering awareness, providing necessary support, and implementing strict regulations, Sikkim can work towards creating a healthier, drug-free environment for all its people.
In his address, he said that effective measures are required to encourage the shaping of the attitude of school children toward self-confidence and adequacy, so as to prevent risky behavior among adolescents and children.
Lastly, he urged the departments, and all involved in this noble endeavour, to the very best and said that with active support and collaboration, the Nasha Mukt Sikkim Campaign will achieve great success.
Mrs Pamin Lepcha, Advisor, Social Welfare Department expressed her gratitude to join hands in support of Nasha Mukt Sikkim, a collaborative campaign towards drug-free. She said that it is an initiative, spearheaded by the government, aimed to create a drug-free State, a vision that is crucial for the future of children and the well-being of our people. She stated that Nasha Mukt Sikkim is a campaign not just a government effort, it is a call for action for every citizen and that it requires the combined efforts of all sectors of our society, healthcare professionals, educators, law enforcement agencies, politicians, community leaders and families.
Speaking at the event she highlighted that the approach should include awareness and education. She pointed out that knowledge is the first step towards prevention, therefore focus should be on extensive awareness programs in schools, colleges and communities to educate not just the young minds, but also every other individual and all stakeholders about the dangers of drug abuse.
She spoke on rehabilitation and support, a recovery journey that requires compassion and continuous support from the authorities, society and family. She said that the focus should be on educating society on the social stigma that going drug-free is an achievable target. She mentioned that integrating substance abuse treatment into the state's PHCs, primary health care system, especially in rural areas, community involvement, local initiatives and people support can significantly enhance the impact.
Further, she added that collaboration with law enforcement agencies is needed to crack down on drug trafficking and ensure strict regulation of substances to build a society where youth can thrive, free from the shackles of addiction. Lastly, she urged all to take a pledge to support the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign to be incorporated into our daily lives. A drug-free Sikkim is not just a dream, it is a goal that we can achieve with collective effort and determination, she added.
Chief Secretary Mr VB Pathak in his address, said that Sikkim has been a torchbearer in many sectors like environmental issues, education, health & socio-economic upliftment, in spite of all these achievements our State is also not free from the serious issues ailing the society all over the world. He stated that the launch of a very crucial and challenging crusade against alcoholism and drug abuse the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign, the day also marks an opportunity to introspect, contemplate, and deliberate on the mammoth difficulty we are confronted with in recent times.
He expressed that the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign aims at understanding and formulating a comprehensive strategy aimed at mitigating drug abuse within the state of Sikkim. The need is felt to make a greater effort to generate awareness of the damaging effects of drug abuse in a sustained, continuous and result-oriented manner, he added.
He highlighted that drug abuse and addiction is a psycho-social-medical problems requiring a holistic approach, from prevention and early detection to effective intervention, rehabilitation and social integration. He also added that addiction not only affects individuals but also deeply impacts the lives and morale of all those connected to them and that there is an urgent need for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to avert and eradicate this menace.
He further expressed that in addition to the policy framework, it is imperative to simultaneously improve delivery mechanisms. Schemes and programs should effectively reach the target groups through partnerships with the private sector and civil society keeping with the evolving needs of the vulnerable sections of society, he added.
In conclusion, he appealed for the collaboration of public and private entities, teachers, faith-based groups, health care providers, law enforcement officials, and all community leaders in furthering the cause of the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign in their respective areas to make a valuable contribution that could be far-reaching in realizing the vision of ‘Sunaulo and Samriddha Sikkim’.
The Secretary of the Social Welfare Department presented a comprehensive overview of Sikkim's substance abuse scenario through a detailed PowerPoint presentation. She highlighted the increasing trend of addiction, particularly among youth, identifying cannabis, cocaine, alcohol, inhalants, sedatives, and opioids as primary concerns.
She informed that the major components identified for the Nashan Mukt Sikkim campaign after assessing the substance abuse scenario in Sikkim were PREVENTION, AWARENESS, ENFORCEMENT and REHABILITATION.
The Secretary reiterated that the department would work as a facilitator and would hold regular consultations with all stakeholders involved, including the Health and Education Departments, Law enforcement agencies and Rehabilitation Centres to ensure the success of this campaign.
The Secretary outlined the SAHAYOGI program, which aims to build a stronger community response. In schools, such as SAHAYOGI MITRA, students will prevent their friends from falling prey to drug abuse and provide necessary steps to assist them in seeking help. In government offices, such as SAHAYOGI KARMACHARI, employees will advise their colleagues abusing substances to seek proper counseling and rehabilitation. At the village community level, as SAHAYOGI AAMAs, women volunteers will spread awareness in the community and act as vigilantes to inform and prevent drug use and trafficking. As SAHAYOGI SARATHIs, drivers will assist in preventing substance trafficking and spreading awareness within their community.
In conclusion, the Secretary emphasized that the campaign's success hinges on coordinated efforts across all Government departments, schools, colleges and communities as a whole.
Earlier, Dr Satish Rasaily, Senior Consultant, C.A.M. in his PowerPoint presentation informed about the Status of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation in Sikkim. The presentation focussed on the current prevalence, changing trends: extent & pattern and the consequences of substance abuse.
During the program, Mr Mingma Norbu Sherpa launched the Social Media pages (Facebook/Instagram) for ‘Nasha Mukt Sikkim’ established by the Social Welfare Department along with a specific email ID. The department has Designed the creatives of the campaign. The logo was also unveiled by the chief guest.
A Grant-in-aid to the De-addiction / Detoxification Centre was handed over by the chief guest and the dignitaries to the following Rehabilitation Centers in the State.
1. Sanjeevni Rehab Society, Namchi
2. Freedom Facility & Rehabilitation Centre, Tathangchen
3. Sikkim Rehabilitation & Detoxification Society, Nimtar
4. Grace Rehabilitation Centre, Middle Lingding
5. Divine Detoxification Centre, Namthang
6. Anugrah Rehab Centre, Jitlang, Rangpo
7. Jagriti, Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA)
8. The Samaritan, Chalamthang, Pakyong
9. Jeewan Marg Society, Lower Bojoghari, Luing Road
10. Mangan Rehabilitation Centre, Mangan
Mr Kelvin Yongden, Inspector, Social Welfare Department briefed about the symbol that was launched by the Chief Guest.
Earlier, Mr Satyen Kumar Pradhan, Special Secretary, Social Welfare Department, delivered the welcome address.
The programme concluded with the Vote of thanks proposed by Mr M. Sharma, Joint Director, Social Welfare Department.
Organized by the Social Welfare Department, the program also had the presence of a Deputy Speaker, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, elected representatives, DGP, Principal Secretaries, HoDs of different departments, Sr. SP, DCs from all districts, SDMs, BDOs from different districts, medical officers, dignitaries, stakeholders and Officials from different departments.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest said that drug use is an issue of paramount importance to society that has devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities undermining the social fabric. He stated that education and awareness are the first lines of defense against drug abuse and the government is committed to implementing comprehensive educational programs aimed at informing youth about the ill effects of drug use. He emphasized the pivotal role of civil society, school education, and family in combating drug abuse, particularly among the youth underscoring that youth are the treasure of society and need proper guidance.
He expressed that the government’s approach to controlling drug use is multifaceted and requires the collective effort of government agencies, law enforcement, healthcare providers, community organizations, and every citizen.
In addition, he highlighted that government action alone is not enough, it needs the active participation of every citizen, community support, educator, and religious leader to create an environment that fosters recovery and resilience.
He shared his school experiences, emphasizing the importance of learning from each other’s life lessons. He underscored the need for both state and non-state actors to collaborate in combating this societal menace. He asserted that families and schools bear the primary responsibility of guiding children, ensuring they follow the right path. He highlighted that drug abuse is the root cause of numerous social, mental, and physical problems and urged everyone to take responsibility and say no to drugs.
Mr Samdup Lepcha, Minister Social Welfare Department in his address said that the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign is multi-faceted and designed to sustain momentum throughout the year, requiring the wholehearted support of all stakeholders to eradicate the drug menace from our state. He stated that the alarming increase in drug use, especially among the youth, threatens this tranquillity. To counter this, we need a well-knit Anti-Drug Strategy, he added.
He pointed out that stricter regulations and enforcement are vital to curb the sale and distribution of drugs. He added that increased patrolling and surveillance in areas prone to drug activities, along with enhanced cooperation between local law enforcement and community organizations, will help reduce the drug menace.
He also suggested engaging youth and encouraging them in sports, arts, and other constructive activities.
Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of more rehabilitation centers to provide treatment and support for those battling addiction. He also urged the stakeholders to provide timely counseling services and helplines to provide immediate assistance and relief. He expressed that by fostering awareness, providing necessary support, and implementing strict regulations, Sikkim can work towards creating a healthier, drug-free environment for all its people.
In his address, he said that effective measures are required to encourage the shaping of the attitude of school children toward self-confidence and adequacy, so as to prevent risky behavior among adolescents and children.
Lastly, he urged the departments, and all involved in this noble endeavour, to the very best and said that with active support and collaboration, the Nasha Mukt Sikkim Campaign will achieve great success.
Mrs Pamin Lepcha, Advisor, Social Welfare Department expressed her gratitude to join hands in support of Nasha Mukt Sikkim, a collaborative campaign towards drug-free. She said that it is an initiative, spearheaded by the government, aimed to create a drug-free State, a vision that is crucial for the future of children and the well-being of our people. She stated that Nasha Mukt Sikkim is a campaign not just a government effort, it is a call for action for every citizen and that it requires the combined efforts of all sectors of our society, healthcare professionals, educators, law enforcement agencies, politicians, community leaders and families.
Speaking at the event she highlighted that the approach should include awareness and education. She pointed out that knowledge is the first step towards prevention, therefore focus should be on extensive awareness programs in schools, colleges and communities to educate not just the young minds, but also every other individual and all stakeholders about the dangers of drug abuse.
She spoke on rehabilitation and support, a recovery journey that requires compassion and continuous support from the authorities, society and family. She said that the focus should be on educating society on the social stigma that going drug-free is an achievable target. She mentioned that integrating substance abuse treatment into the state's PHCs, primary health care system, especially in rural areas, community involvement, local initiatives and people support can significantly enhance the impact.
Further, she added that collaboration with law enforcement agencies is needed to crack down on drug trafficking and ensure strict regulation of substances to build a society where youth can thrive, free from the shackles of addiction. Lastly, she urged all to take a pledge to support the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign to be incorporated into our daily lives. A drug-free Sikkim is not just a dream, it is a goal that we can achieve with collective effort and determination, she added.
Chief Secretary Mr VB Pathak in his address, said that Sikkim has been a torchbearer in many sectors like environmental issues, education, health & socio-economic upliftment, in spite of all these achievements our State is also not free from the serious issues ailing the society all over the world. He stated that the launch of a very crucial and challenging crusade against alcoholism and drug abuse the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign, the day also marks an opportunity to introspect, contemplate, and deliberate on the mammoth difficulty we are confronted with in recent times.
He expressed that the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign aims at understanding and formulating a comprehensive strategy aimed at mitigating drug abuse within the state of Sikkim. The need is felt to make a greater effort to generate awareness of the damaging effects of drug abuse in a sustained, continuous and result-oriented manner, he added.
He highlighted that drug abuse and addiction is a psycho-social-medical problems requiring a holistic approach, from prevention and early detection to effective intervention, rehabilitation and social integration. He also added that addiction not only affects individuals but also deeply impacts the lives and morale of all those connected to them and that there is an urgent need for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to avert and eradicate this menace.
He further expressed that in addition to the policy framework, it is imperative to simultaneously improve delivery mechanisms. Schemes and programs should effectively reach the target groups through partnerships with the private sector and civil society keeping with the evolving needs of the vulnerable sections of society, he added.
In conclusion, he appealed for the collaboration of public and private entities, teachers, faith-based groups, health care providers, law enforcement officials, and all community leaders in furthering the cause of the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign in their respective areas to make a valuable contribution that could be far-reaching in realizing the vision of ‘Sunaulo and Samriddha Sikkim’.
The Secretary of the Social Welfare Department presented a comprehensive overview of Sikkim's substance abuse scenario through a detailed PowerPoint presentation. She highlighted the increasing trend of addiction, particularly among youth, identifying cannabis, cocaine, alcohol, inhalants, sedatives, and opioids as primary concerns.
She informed that the major components identified for the Nashan Mukt Sikkim campaign after assessing the substance abuse scenario in Sikkim were PREVENTION, AWARENESS, ENFORCEMENT and REHABILITATION.
The Secretary reiterated that the department would work as a facilitator and would hold regular consultations with all stakeholders involved, including the Health and Education Departments, Law enforcement agencies and Rehabilitation Centres to ensure the success of this campaign.
The Secretary outlined the SAHAYOGI program, which aims to build a stronger community response. In schools, such as SAHAYOGI MITRA, students will prevent their friends from falling prey to drug abuse and provide necessary steps to assist them in seeking help. In government offices, such as SAHAYOGI KARMACHARI, employees will advise their colleagues abusing substances to seek proper counseling and rehabilitation. At the village community level, as SAHAYOGI AAMAs, women volunteers will spread awareness in the community and act as vigilantes to inform and prevent drug use and trafficking. As SAHAYOGI SARATHIs, drivers will assist in preventing substance trafficking and spreading awareness within their community.
In conclusion, the Secretary emphasized that the campaign's success hinges on coordinated efforts across all Government departments, schools, colleges and communities as a whole.
Earlier, Dr Satish Rasaily, Senior Consultant, C.A.M. in his PowerPoint presentation informed about the Status of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation in Sikkim. The presentation focussed on the current prevalence, changing trends: extent & pattern and the consequences of substance abuse.
During the program, Mr Mingma Norbu Sherpa launched the Social Media pages (Facebook/Instagram) for ‘Nasha Mukt Sikkim’ established by the Social Welfare Department along with a specific email ID. The department has Designed the creatives of the campaign. The logo was also unveiled by the chief guest.
A Grant-in-aid to the De-addiction / Detoxification Centre was handed over by the chief guest and the dignitaries to the following Rehabilitation Centers in the State.
1. Sanjeevni Rehab Society, Namchi
2. Freedom Facility & Rehabilitation Centre, Tathangchen
3. Sikkim Rehabilitation & Detoxification Society, Nimtar
4. Grace Rehabilitation Centre, Middle Lingding
5. Divine Detoxification Centre, Namthang
6. Anugrah Rehab Centre, Jitlang, Rangpo
7. Jagriti, Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA)
8. The Samaritan, Chalamthang, Pakyong
9. Jeewan Marg Society, Lower Bojoghari, Luing Road
10. Mangan Rehabilitation Centre, Mangan
Mr Kelvin Yongden, Inspector, Social Welfare Department briefed about the symbol that was launched by the Chief Guest.
Earlier, Mr Satyen Kumar Pradhan, Special Secretary, Social Welfare Department, delivered the welcome address.
The programme concluded with the Vote of thanks proposed by Mr M. Sharma, Joint Director, Social Welfare Department.