Namphing GPU Under Namchi District Takes a Stand: Community Unites Against Substance Abuse
Namchi, 22 June (IPR) : In a significant step towards building a drug-free society, the District Administration Namchi and the Social Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the 12 Namphing Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU), organised a one-day workshop on Substance Abuse Prevention at the PLC Hall, Namphing today.
The programme also witnessed the inauguration of a De-Addiction Counselling Centre and the formation of an Anti-Drug Team, reaffirming the community’s commitment to combating substance abuse at the grassroots level.
The initiative was organised under the banners of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and Nasha Mukt Sikkim, centred on the theme “Say No to Drugs – Choose Life, Choose Hope.” The programme also marked the observance of Nasha Mukt Bharat Saptah (17–26 June 2026) and commemorated the forthcoming International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The programme was graced by the MLA of Temi-Namphing and Advisor to the Excise Department and Directorate of Sikkim State Lotteries Mr Bedu Singh Panth, as the Chief Guest. He formally inaugurated the newly established De-Addiction Counselling Centre and inspected its facilities. The centre, equipped with a dedicated counsellor, aims to provide professional guidance and support to individuals struggling with substance dependency.
In his address, Mr B S Panth commended the District Administration and Namphing GPU for launching what he described as a pioneering initiative at the Gram Panchayat level. He emphasised the importance of ensuring the centre functions effectively and serves the needs of those seeking assistance. Stressing that substance abuse is a challenge that requires collective action, he urged citizens to extend support to affected individuals and help them reintegrate into society.
The Chief Guest further encouraged the public to make use of the toll-free helplines available for reporting drug-related offences and expressed his gratitude to the District Administration for its continued support in strengthening local governance and community welfare.
Addressing the gathering, District Collector Namchi, Ms Anupa Tamling, lauded Namphing GPU’s proactive efforts, stating that the establishment of a counselling centre at the grassroots level exemplifies the Government’s vision of delivering services at people’s doorsteps. She highlighted the centre’s potential to provide much-needed emotional and psychological support to individuals facing personal and social challenges.
Further, she emphasised that alongside the right to a healthy lifestyle and environment comes a collective responsibility to safeguard future generations from the harmful effects of illicit substances. She called upon all stakeholders to work together in creating a safer and healthier society.
She also highlighted MAYA (Mission for Adolescents and Youth Advancement), an initiative of the Namchi District Administration aimed at supporting school dropouts through re-enrolment programmes and skill development training, enabling them to build sustainable livelihoods and brighter futures.
Reiterating the importance of collective responsibility, she urged communities to unite in supporting vulnerable individuals and strengthening social cohesion through shared effort and compassion.
Speaking on the occasion, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Namchi, Ms Sonam D Bhutia, highlighted the role of law enforcement agencies in disrupting the supply chain of illicit substances by identifying, apprehending and prosecuting drug peddlers. She appealed for greater public cooperation in reporting illegal activities and assisting the police in their efforts to create a drug-free society.
She announced that a dedicated helpline number, 9046245044, would become operational from 23 June 2026, enabling citizens to report drug-related offences confidentially. She further noted that the police have consistently taken action against peddlers while facilitating de-addiction support and rehabilitation for substance users.
Additional Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Mr Bishnu Prasad Sharma, observed that young people remain particularly vulnerable to substance abuse and stressed the need to provide positive avenues, motivation and opportunities that steer them away from harmful influences.
Echoing the principle that prevention is better than cure, he encouraged parents, guardians and community members to remain attentive to behavioural changes among young people and to engage them in sports, cultural and educational activities that promote healthy development.
Additional Director, Social Justice Division, Social Welfare Department, Mr Mahesh Sharma, outlined the department’s ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing substance abuse and supporting affected individuals. He spoke on the causes and consequences of addiction and emphasised the vital role of public participation in breaking the cycle of drug abuse.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Namchi, Mr Bikash Tewari, presented the department’s achievements, revealing that during 2025, a total of 67 drug peddlers were imprisoned, while 137 substance users were enrolled in de-addiction programmes. He urged citizens to continue supporting law enforcement efforts and highlighted helpline 1933 for grievance redressal and 1930 for cybercrime-related complaints.
Providing a medical perspective, Consultant in Addiction Medicine, Dr Satish Rasaily, discussed the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in treating individuals with substance dependency. He also explained various treatment and rehabilitation approaches available to support recovery and long-term well-being.
Representatives from Drugs Safai Abhiyan, Jorethang, and Anti Drugs Squad, Melli, shared their experiences and challenges in tackling drug abuse and illegal trafficking within communities.
A highlight of the programme was the felicitation of Mr Bhaskar Poudyal, Retired Principal-cum-Joint Director (Education), in recognition of his unwavering contributions to society. The event also featured the administration of an anti-drug pledge, reaffirming the community’s collective resolve to combat substance abuse. Additionally, three members of the newly formed Anti-Drug Team were formally entrusted with their responsibilities.
The programme was attended by Panchayats from Namphing and Bermiok GPUs, departmental officers, representatives from the Social Welfare Department, police personnel, members of BAC Namphing, representatives of Drugs Safai Abhiyan and Anti Drugs Squad, along with other dignitaries and members of the public.
Report From DIO Namchi