Shillong, May 19: As part of the Government’s continued commitment to eradicate the menace of substance abuse and develop evidence-based interventions to address the issue, the DREAM Mission had earlier in December 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sankardev College for undertaking a comprehensive survey on substance abuse in the State.
The survey aims to gather data and insights regarding the prevalence, patterns, and impact of substance use across Meghalaya, which will assist the Government in formulating targeted policies and strengthening prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies.
The data collection exercise assumes particular importance in view of the varying and often conflicting information presently available regarding the status and prevalence of substance use in the State.
The survey will initially commence in Shillong as a pilot project and will subsequently be expanded to other parts of the State. Following receipt of the required ethical clearance, the survey is expected to begin shortly.
Today, the survey was officially inaugurated today at Sankardev College in the presence of Dr. Eureka FP Lyngdoh, Principal, Shri K Chyne, Vice Principal, faculty members, and representatives of the DREAM Mission along with members of the Meghalaya User’s Forum (MUF) and the Meghalaya Drug Users Network (MeDUNET).
The initiative is unique in its approach as it actively involves members of the user community in the process of data collection. Their participation is expected to provide valuable grassroots-level insights and contribute towards developing a more realistic understanding of the challenges relating to substance abuse.
Speaking on the occasion, the MD, DREAM, stated that the initiative reflects the Government’s serious commitment towards addressing substance abuse through scientific assessment, research, and informed policymaking.
He further emphasized that the data generated through the survey would play a vital role in strengthening future interventions and improving the overall response mechanism of the State.
The Mission Director also stated that the visionary approach of the Government in addressing the drug menace deserves serious appreciation, particularly the leadership of the Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, who initiated the concept of the DREAM Mission.
He highlighted that the Mission is a unique and dedicated initiative of its kind in the country aimed specifically at combating substance abuse through a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach.
The DREAM Mission expressed its appreciation to Sankardev College and Ms. E Tariang, Head of Department, Statistics in particular, who will spearhead the survey, for partnering in this important initiative and reaffirmed its commitment towards building a coordinated and research-driven response to the growing drug menace in the State.
