With the urgent and growing threat of drug and alcohol abuse in the region, SPARK organized a 4-day workshop titled “Protection from and Prevention of Drugs and Alcohol – The Laws”. The workshop was held for the communities of Mawlong Village, Mawlynrei Village, the Bara Bazaar slum, and students from St. Agnes School, along with interns from St. Anthony’s College, St. Mary’s College, Shillong College, Women’s College, and others. The initiative was supported by the Office of the District Social Welfare, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, and benefited over 500 individuals.

The workshop fostered deep and open dialogue between expert resource persons and participants, bringing to light painful and alarming personal accounts—especially from parents of drug users. These stories revealed the immense emotional toll, sense of helplessness, and the harsh realities of drug abuse and the illegal drug trade plaguing the communities.

Participants united in a collective plea for more effective interventions from law enforcement and relevant authorities. The environment created during the sessions encouraged several individuals to speak out about their experiences, with many victims expressing a renewed willingness to seek help. A significant number of attendees requested access to rehabilitation services, signaling hope and a desire for a fresh start.

This program marked a vital step forward in addressing the crisis but also highlighted the silent suffering endured by many families—some of whom have lost loved ones due to the lack of timely attention and intervention.

Ms. Shima Modak, President and Founder of SPARK, shared that similar programs have led to the identification of numerous drug abuse cases and the admission of several victims into rehabilitation centers. She emphasized that these initiatives are enabling individuals to reclaim their lives and reintegrate into society with renewed purpose.

SPARK remains steadfast in its mission to combat substance abuse. The organization will continue working hand in hand with communities, families, and authorities to address this grave issue—one that continues to spread like a virus, threatening the very fabric of society.