Shillong, June 25: The National Survey on the extent and pattern of substance use in India (2019) showed that opioid use affects 6.34% of the population in Meghalaya while alcohol use affects 34%.
However, dependence rates stand at 0.75% for opioids and 0.99%, for alcohol, substance dependence can have devastating effects on individuals, families and communities.
It ieads to physical and mental health probiems, impaired judgement, familyconflict, loss of employment, financial hardship, increased risks of accidents, crime and premature dcath. Early prevention, timely treatment and community support are essential to reduce harm and promote recovery.
On this year’s commemoration of the International Day against Drug abuse and Ilicit Trafficking we reaffirm our commitment to preventing substance abuse, promoting evidence based treatıment and rehabilitation, and supporting individuals and families affected by addiction.
Its recognise that prevention, early intervention, treatment and community support are essential to building healthier and drug free communities. SAN-KER is participating in this worldwide effort by organizing a series of programmes spread over three days.
On the 250 June 2026 a programme will be conducted in association with the Army Wives Welfare Association, HQ 101 Area, spread awareness thereby reducing stigma so as to promote treatment and recovery.
The role of the family is of utmost importance at every stage as the disease of addiction is no respecter of status or position in life. On the 26 a programme will be held to showcase dependent individual’s abilities and also to have a meaningful discussion together with their family members about each individual’s unique problems and measures to alleviate them.
On the 27th a programme will be held with those in active treatment together with those in recovery. A talk on the theme for this year and testimonies will be heard. To acknowledge their unwavering commitment towards sobriety we will be felicitating 31
individuals who have completed more than 1000 days of sobriety. A motorcycle rally by bikers under the banner of Café Racers of Shillong at 10.m. is planned to spread community awareness.
We are issuing this press release now so that any interested parties canjoin, learn, share and spread the message of hope for addicted individuals said Dr. S Syiem Director Sanker.
