Shillong, June 26: With an aim to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society, the Women’s Wing of the National People’s Party (NPP) organised an Inter-College Debate Competition on Monday on the topic- Drug Policies to combat the menace of Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at State Convention Centre, Shillong.
Annually on June 26, internationally it was observed as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of a society free of drug abuse.
In Shillong, the programme organised by the Women’s Wing of the NPP sees participants from different colleges including- St. Anthony’s College, Umhyrpi College, Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU), Synod College, St Mary’s College and Women’s College Shillong.
Addressing the alarming rise of drug abuse cases in our society, the competition witnessed passionate discussions and thought-provoking arguments for the motion the participants spoke on the need of strengthened policies to combat drugs abuse and illicit trafficking while against the motion the participants stressed on policies focusing towards preventive and rehabilitation measures to combat drugs and illicit trafficking.
Participants delved into topics such as the root causes of drug abuse and their impact on the society. The speakers emphasized the collective responsibility of society to address drug abuse effectively and highlighted the importance of comprehensive prevention programs.
Admita Bhattacharjee of St. Mary’s College, Shillong emerged as the Best Speaker was awarding a winning certificate along with ₹10,000/- in cash, in the second place, Debargha Sarkar of St Anthony’s College was awarded with certificate and a sum of ₹7,000/- and in third, Pynskhem L. Mawnai of Umshyrpi College awarded a certificate and ₹5,000/- cash to recognizing their exceptional debating skills and the effectiveness of their arguments.
Education Minister, Rakkam A Sangma was the chief guest while MLA Santa Mary Shylla was the guest of honour. The Chief Guest, Minister Rakkam in his speech he stressed on the need to create awareness about the increasing illegal drug use and prevention measures in the state of Meghalaya. He emphasised on the power of education as the primary tool in helping combating this menace.
The panel of esteemed judges, consisting of Dr Pakha Tersia, MD Psychiatry, Deputy Superintendent of Police Subir Sangma and David Laitphlang the President of Shillong Press Club (SPC) meticulously evaluated the performances of each participants. Their expertise and impartiality ensured a fair evaluation process. The debate was moderated by MDC and NPP Youth Wing Spokesperson, Bajop Pyngrope.
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