Ampati, Sept 11: The South West Garo Hills District Administration is set to establish Block Level Task Forces (BLTFs) for Suicide Prevention to strengthen coordinated, community-level intervention and support mechanisms across the district.
The proposed initiative was highlighted during the observance of World Suicide Prevention Day at Garobadha Government Higher Secondary School on Thursday.
The initiative assumes added significance in view of the 18 reported suicide cases in the district, involving 15 males and 3 females. Superintendent of Police, South West Garo Hills, Vikash Varma, IPS, who attended the programme as Chief Guest, noted that the figure was a serious concern, particularly given the district’s relatively small population and geographical size.
Organised by the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), South West Garo Hills, Ampati, the observance was held under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” and focused on strengthening mental-health awareness, early identification of distress and timely intervention.
Highlighting the important role of schools in suicide prevention, Additional Deputy Commissioner and PD, DRDA, Shri Raymond Z. D. Shira, MCS, stressed that teachers have an important responsibility to remain attentive to changes in students’ behaviour, emotional well-being and circumstances, and to identify concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed.
He emphasised that suicide prevention requires a coordinated effort involving the district administration, health services, police, educational institutions, families and the wider community. He also underscored the importance of integrating mental-health education and awareness into broader suicide-prevention efforts.
Dr Steve Cherak R. Marak, Senior Psychiatrist, Ampati Civil Hospital, addressed the gathering on mental health and highlighted the importance of recognising signs of distress and seeking timely professional support.
Earlier, District Nodal Officer, DMHP, Dr Matgrik L. K. Sangma, delivered the keynote address and highlighted the need for continued awareness and community participation in addressing mental-health concerns.
The observance concluded with a pledge for renewed commitment to reducing stigma surrounding mental health, strengthening early intervention and building community-based support systems to prevent suicide and promote mental well-being across South West Garo Hills.
