Shillong, May 16: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday reviewed the state’s anti-drug campaign under the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), with officials highlighting delays in setting up rehabilitation centres due to pending clearances, land constraints and procedural hurdles.
The review meeting, attended by officials of the Social Welfare Department and allied agencies, examined the status of rehabilitation infrastructure and ongoing enforcement measures across the state.
Officials informed the meeting that several rehabilitation centres are operational, while proposals for new facilities from multiple districts are under process. Delays in obtaining Non-Objection Certificates (NOCs), shortage of land and approval-related issues were identified as key obstacles in expanding rehabilitation services.
The government is working on standardised designs and implementation models for rehabilitation centres to speed up execution, officials said.
Rehabilitation services under the DREAM mission are also being supported through partnerships with civil society groups and faith-based organisations.
The meeting also reviewed enforcement measures taken by police, including seizures, arrests and preventive action in drug-related cases. Officials said efforts are being made to strengthen financial investigations linked to narcotics networks.
Sangma stressed the need for coordinated inter-agency action and stronger financial in investigations in drug cases. He also asked departments to improve public communication on enforcement action to create greater awareness and deterrence.
The meeting discussed expanding awareness campaigns through schools, colleges, community organisations and local leadership networks as part of the state’s prevention strategy.
Officials also proposed QR-based systems to help people confidentially access information on rehabilitation and support services.
The Chief Minister directed departments to accelerate implementation of ongoing and proposed interventions under the DREAM mission and ensure regular monitoring of progress.
, with officials highlighting delays in setting up rehabilitation centres due to pending clearances, land constraints and procedural hurdles.){kind=link}