DEOMALI, Sep 25: A delegation of the District-level Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD), Tirap, comprising officials from various line departments and led by Deputy Commissioner, Tirap, Shri Badonlum Tawsik, visited the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre at Deomali on Friday to take stock of its functioning, infrastructure and rehabilitation activities.

The delegation comprised Circle Officer, Soha, Shri Toko Kacha; SDPO Shri R. Khomrang; Assistant Commissioner (Tax & Excise), Smti Monika Lowang Medam; District Medical Officer, Dr. Bimal Ratan; CDPO, Khonsa, Smti Chate Lowangcha; HDO, Deomali, Mrs. Mocha Ajang; ADO, Deomali, Miss Gimmem Boje; Dr. Thenyak Matey; and Shri Monglin Mongwang, BEO (Establishment) In-charge, Education Department.

The visit commenced with an inspection of the rehabilitation centre, during which the Deputy Commissioner and the NCORD team assessed the available infrastructure and interacted with the inmates undergoing rehabilitation.

Welcoming the delegation, Chairperson of the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre, Shri Jangphua Tangjang, briefed the team on the activities and achievements of the centre. He informed that the centre is undertaking two major interventions—detoxification and rehabilitation of persons affected by substance abuse, and targeted interventions relating to HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis.

Since its establishment on January 24, 2025, a total of 155 persons have undergone rehabilitation at the centre. Of these, 131 have successfully completed their rehabilitation programmes and are now leading normal lives with their families. At present, 24 inmates are undergoing treatment and counselling at the centre, which has two counsellors. One HIV-positive patient is also receiving treatment at the facility.

During the interaction, Shri Toko Kacha, CO, Soha; Smti Monika Lowang Medam, Assistant Commissioner (Tax & Excise); and Shri Monglin Mongwang, BEO (Establishment) In-charge, spoke about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of sustained efforts towards recovery and rehabilitation. They encouraged the inmates to support one another, remain committed to their recovery and rebuild healthy relationships with their families and society. They also advised those undergoing recovery to avoid environments and peer groups associated with substance abuse and to engage themselves in positive and constructive activities with their families and communities.

District Medical Officer Dr. Bimal Ratan expressed concern over the growing impact of substance abuse on individuals, families and society. He particularly stressed the need to protect the younger generation from drug addiction and urged the youth to channelise their energy towards constructive and productive activities. He said that active participation of the youth is essential for building a healthier and stronger society and called for collective efforts to combat substance abuse.

The DMO also appreciated those who had successfully completed their rehabilitation and commended the management and staff of the centre for their dedicated efforts in helping individuals overcome addiction and return to mainstream life.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Shri Badonlum Tawsik said that drug abuse is not merely an individual problem but a serious societal challenge affecting families and communities. He called upon parents, community-based organisations, civil society, the general public and all stakeholders to join hands with the District Administration and Police Department in the collective fight against drug abuse.

The Deputy Commissioner called for intensified efforts to combat substance abuse in Tirap and appealed for coordinated action towards the goal of a drug-free society, while contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Shri Tawsik also urged the inmates and those who had successfully recovered from addiction to make positive changes in their lives and extend cooperation to law-enforcement agencies in identifying and reporting drug peddlers and suppliers. He assured that information provided to the authorities would be handled with due confidentiality and in accordance with applicable procedures.

He encouraged those undergoing rehabilitation to remain committed to a drug-free life and become positive role models within their families and communities. He further stressed the importance of timely intervention, counselling and rehabilitation for individuals struggling with substance abuse.

During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated Chairperson Shri Jangphua Tangjang and the entire team of the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre for their initiative and continued efforts to help persons affected by drug addiction return to normal and productive lives.

The programme also featured recovery testimonials from inmates, who shared their personal experiences and journeys towards overcoming addiction. Their testimonies served as a source of encouragement and motivation for others undergoing rehabilitation.

The visit concluded with a collective commitment by the NCORD team, the rehabilitation centre and other stakeholders to strengthen rehabilitation efforts, promote awareness and work together towards creating a healthier and drug-free society in Tirap.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Matphoa Wangsu, who informed that the New Way Foundation Rehabilitation Centre is currently being run on a self-help basis without financial support from the government or political leaders. He stated that, despite limited resources, the management is committed to providing free rehabilitation to around 7–8 inmates from economically weaker backgrounds on humanitarian grounds. He expressed hope that the centre would receive government grant-in-aid in the future to strengthen and expand its rehabilitation services. (DIPRO)