Shillong, Feb 11: The Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM) convened a sensitization meeting with members of the Village Defence Parties (VDPs) of Shillong City to strengthen community-led efforts in addressing drug abuse and its associated challenges.
The meeting aimed to brief VDP members on the various initiatives undertaken by DREAM so far, while also providing a platform for VDP representatives to share the challenges they encounter in their day-to-day operations within their localities.
Discussions focused on the importance of destigmatizing persons affected by substance use disorders and promoting a compassionate, community-based approach to rehabilitation. Emphasis was laid on the role of VDPs in complementing the efforts of the Meghalaya Police in drug enforcement, the urgent need for expanding rehabilitation facilities, and enhancing police–community coordination.
The meeting also highlighted the critical need for establishing halfway homes within localities as an essential component of post-rehabilitation support to prevent relapse among recovering individuals. VDP members were sensitized on their important role in engaging with Dorbar Shnongs and helping to assuage community concerns to facilitate the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for such facilities.
Further, the importance of vocational training was underscored as a key preventive measure to provide livelihood opportunities and reduce vulnerability to substance abuse.
Key areas of collaboration identified included supporting investigations as witnesses in drug-related cases, coordinating with law enforcement during drug seizures and arrests, and strengthening information sharing between communities and the police.
The meeting was also addressed by Inspector E Lamare, OC Madanrynting Police Station and Insp N Koch, OC ANTF Police Station.
VDP members from the following localities Lawsohtun, Lumparing, Madanrynting, Demthring, Mawlai Iew-Rynghep, Lapalang, Nongthymmai, Mawlynrei Nongkrem, Mawlai Umjaiur, Umpling, Smit Pyllun, Nongrah, among others, actively participated in the deliberations.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to foster stronger coordination between DREAM, the Meghalaya Police, and the Village Defence Parties to build safer, healthier communities and reinforce the State’s commitment to combating substance abuse.
