In order to combat the increasing menace of drug abuse in Mizoram, the Young Mizo Association (YMA) and churches have come together to work out a comprehensive plan.
The central committee of YMA and the Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitute Committee (MKHC), a conglomerate of 14 major churches in Mizoram, have joined hands for a combined exertion to fight substance and alcohol abuse in the north-eastern State.
In a shocking revelation, the Mizoram Excise and Narcotics Department last month stated that at least 65 people have died of drug abuse in Mizoram last year.
In view of this, the YMA and MKHC leadership met at Synod Committee room here on Monday and deliberated extensively on issues relating to drug smuggling and drug abuse in the State and how to combat the menace collectively.
YMA president Vanlalruata while interacting with media said earlier attempts to check substance and alcohol abuse in the State proved futile. So it is about time to devise new initiatives addressing the young generation and create massive awareness among them.
Vanlalruata added that his association along with church leaders would also conduct prayer meets to cleanse the mental health of the youngsters.
This he feels will prove to be instrumental in helping bring down the percentage of drug and alcohol abuse.
Usually, consumption of abusive substances and alcohol is associated with depression and other mental problems.
According to YMA records, at least 964 people died in Aizawl because of consumption of alcohol between 2013 and 2016.
The record also said at least 4,642 people are affected at present by drug abuse.
According to the State Excise and Narcotics Department, among the 65 drug-related deaths last year, 28 people died from heroin overdose while the rest died due to abuse of other narcotics.
Among those killed in substance abuse in the State last year also include 12 women.
The state has already recorded its first death of drug abuse in this year.
