Aizwal: The Mizoram government on Sunday launched a state-wide narcotics awareness campaign in collaboration with churches to strengthen community-led efforts against drug abuse and expand rehabilitation support for people recovering from substance addiction, officials said.
The campaign was jointly inaugurated by the Social Welfare Department and the Mizoram Presbyterian Church at the Chamari Local Presbyterian Church in Aizawl.
Launching the initiative, Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii said the government’s Hulhliap (detoxification centre) programme has delivered encouraging results in helping people overcome substance addiction. She added that the government is now working to introduce additional measures to improve rehabilitation services and ensure long-term support for recovering drug users.
The minister highlighted the importance of building an effective and affordable support system, noting that Narcotics Anonymous (NA) plays a vital role in helping individuals reintegrate into society after recovery.
She also announced that the government is developing an After Care Skill Training programme in partnership with several church bodies, including the Mizoram Presbyterian Church (Synod), the Baptist Church of Mizoram (BCM), the Evangelical Church of Maraland (ECM), the Lai Independent Baptist Church of Mizoram (LIKBK), as well as various non-governmental organisations.
As part of the campaign, awareness programmes on Narcotics Anonymous will be organised in 27 churches across Aizawl and nearby areas.
Officials said counsellors and resource persons from the Mizoram State Drug Demand Reduction Board (MSDDRB), operating under the Social Welfare Department, along with the Mizoram Drugs User Forum (MDUF), will conduct awareness sessions and counselling programmes.
The initiative will also include dedicated sensitisation programmes for family members of people affected by substance abuse, recognising the crucial role families play in the recovery process.
Lalrinpuii urged churches, community organisations and local volunteers to actively encourage individuals struggling with drug addiction to take part in the campaign and make use of the rehabilitation and counselling services being offered.