SHILLONG : The Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) on Tuesday held a sensitisation meeting with Village Defence Parties (VDPs) of Shillong City, aimed at strengthening community participation in the fight against drug abuse.
The meeting focused on reducing stigma associated with substance use disorders and promoting community-based rehabilitation as a sustainable solution. Emphasis was laid on the vital role of VDPs in complementing the enforcement efforts of the Meghalaya Police.
Mission Director of DREAM, Francis Kharshiing, said that VDPs play a crucial role in grassroots-level engagement and can significantly aid drug enforcement and prevention initiatives. He stressed the importance of community cooperation in addressing drug-related challenges.
A key issue discussed during the meeting was the urgent need to establish halfway homes within localities to support individuals after rehabilitation and prevent relapse. VDP members were sensitised on working closely with Dorbar Shnongs to address community concerns and facilitate the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for such facilities.
The meeting also underscored the importance of vocational training as a preventive strategy, highlighting its role in providing livelihood opportunities and reducing vulnerability to substance abuse.
Areas of collaboration identified included assisting 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 programme was also addressed by Inspector E Lamare, Officer-in-Charge of Madanrynting Police Station, and Inspector N Koch, Officer-in-Charge of ANTF Police Station.
VDP members from various localities including Lawsohtun, Lumparing, Madanrynting, Demthring, Mawlai Iew-Rynghep, Lapalang, Nongthymmai, Mawlynrei Nongkrem, Mawlai Umjaiur, Umpling, Smit Pyllun, Nongrah, among others, participated actively in the deliberations.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to enhance coordination between DREAM, the Meghalaya Police, and Village Defence Parties to build safer and healthier communities and reinforce the State’s commitment to combating substance abuse.