Rally against drug abuse

SHILLONG, SEPT 15: Hundreds of students, teachers and government officials braved the scorching sun and joined the rally to spread awareness against substance abuse and illicit trafficking at Ampati on Friday. Spearheaded by the District Social Welfare Officer, Ampati, the rally is a part of the series of awareness campaigns being organized in the district of South West Garo Hills since the month of June, last to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking.

The participants marched through the thoroughfares of Ampati carrying placards to send a strong message against abuse of and illegal sale of intoxicating substances. At the culmination point at the Multi-facility Centre, Ampati, a brief awareness programme was conducted which was attended by Extra Assistant Commissioner, Ampati, D.A.Sangma as the chief guest.

In her address, the Extra Assistant Commissioner stressed the need for aggressive campaign to curb the rising abuse of drugs, particularly, locally and easily available intoxicants like alcohol, tobacco, etc among the youths today. Since the International Day against drug abuse & illicit trafficking is observed only once a year, she put a suggestion before the gathering that at least once a fortnight schools can set aside a few minutes to give awareness talk on the issue during their school assembly and also to conduct time to time checking of students’ bags and pockets for any intoxicants like ghutka, bidi, cigarette or tobacco packets.

Others who spoke on the occasion were the DSWO, Ampati Linda J. Sangma and Adolescent Counselor, Miami Sangma who conducted a brief counseling session for the students. Prizes were also distributed to the winners of slogan writing competition which was held on September 1, last. St. Claret Secondary School bagged the first and second prizes, while Ampati Govt. Higher Secondary School got the third prize.

By Our Reporter