Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Saturday distributed financial assistance to 33 beneficiaries and handed over accreditation certificates and Grant-in-Aid to 21 drug treatment centres as part of the state government’s efforts to tackle drug addiction and strengthen rehabilitation services.
The assistance was provided under the state government’s flagship Bana Kaih (Handholding) scheme at a programme held at the Assembly annexe in Aizawl. Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii was also present at the event.
Lalduhoma expressed concern over the impact of substance abuse on families and communities and appreciated the role played by churches, non-governmental organisations and rehabilitation centres in helping people overcome addiction and return to normal life.
The Chief Minister said the state government was taking firm measures to curb drug trafficking while also working with civil society organisations to strengthen prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
He stressed that tackling drug abuse required more than action against trafficking and that recovering drug users also needed opportunities to develop skills, become self-reliant and rebuild their lives after treatment.
As part of the state’s rehabilitation and reintegration efforts, 194 recovering individuals at the Hulhliap detoxification centre have so far received training in 13 different skill programmes.
The training is aimed at helping recovering individuals develop practical skills that can support their return to family and community life and improve their prospects of earning a livelihood.
The government has also continued to involve churches, NGOs and treatment centres in its efforts to address substance abuse. Officials have highlighted the importance of cooperation between the government and community-based organisations, particularly in a state where churches and civil society groups play an important role in social welfare and rehabilitation.
Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii said the government remained committed to supporting people struggling with addiction and strengthening the rehabilitation system.
She said the government was also considering the introduction of the Narcotics Anonymous system through churches to make rehabilitation efforts more structured and effective.
