Kohima: Nagaland Police Chief Rupin Sharma has stressed the importance of synchronised efforts and information sharing among civil societies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government agencies, and the state police in combating substance abuse in Nagaland.
Addressing the State Level Seminar on “Substance Abuse in Nagaland and its Impact on Women”, Sharma urged civil societies and NGOs to report information about drug financing, peddling, sales, or consumption to the police so that appropriate action can be taken against offenders.
He further emphasised the importance of conducting awareness campaigns against substance abuse in educational institutions and ensuring that young people are aware of the consequences on both personal lives and society.
Sharma noted the limited capacity of rehabilitation centers in the state and requested the National Women Commission (NCW), Nagaland State Commission for Women, and the Social Welfare Department to address this issue and make rehab centers more cost-effective.
Highlighting the severity of the substance abuse problem in Nagaland and its impact on society, particularly women, Joint Secretary NCW ,A. Asholi Chalai said stressed the need for awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, community empowerment, access to treatment, rehabilitation facilities, mental support, economic empowerment, and early intervention to combat substance abuse effectively
