Shillong, July 15: Care for India’s Reintegration Project, Shillong, in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM Mission), Government of Meghalaya, convened a Partners’ Meet titled “Reintegration Insights: Strengthening Recovery Together.
” The meeting brought together representatives from over 20 non-governmental organisations, faith-based institutions, rehabilitation centres, and government departments to deliberate on strengthening recovery and reintegration pathways for individuals overcoming substance use disorders.
The meeting served as a platform to foster dialogue, share field experiences, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders working towards sustainable recovery and social reintegration in Meghalaya.
Discussions were centred around three key objectives, Highlighting Ground-Level Realities: Dr. Jasmine Mary Lyngdoh shared valuable field observations and drew upon her extensive experience to present the practical challenges faced by individuals transitioning from rehabilitation to community life.
Identifying Gaps and Opportunities: Shri Francis Kharshiing, Dr. Pakha Tesia, Rev. E. C. Marwein, Fr. Cyril Tirkey, and Bah B.L Nari provided insights into existing gaps in referral mechanisms, continuity of care, livelihood support, and community-based reintegration, while proposing opportunities for stronger inter-agency coordination.
Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Participants unanimously agreed to establish a collaborative forum comprising NGOs, government departments, rehabilitation centres, and faith-based organisations to enhance coordination and support for recovery initiatives. Care For India will serve as the coordinating agency for the forum during its inaugural year, with the next partners’ meeting scheduled to be hosted by New Hope De-addiction Centre in October.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bob Jacob of Care For India remarked, “This gathering reflects our shared hope and vision—that recovery is not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a life lived with dignity, purpose, and the support of a caring community.”
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work collectively towards building an inclusive, coordinated, and recovery-oriented ecosystem that supports long-term rehabilitation, social reintegration, and improved quality of life for individuals affected by substance use disorders across Meghalaya.
