Celebration of the 5th Anniversary of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Held at DAC, Namchi

The primary aim of the session was to identify and support government employees affected by substance abuse and addiction, while facilitating their treatment and rehabilitation.

The programme was chaired by the Minister for Urban Development and Food & Civil Supplies Departments, Mr Bhoj Raj Rai.

In his speech, the Minister stressed that any form of harm to an individual, even beyond conventional drug use, can be regarded as “Nasha.” He underscored that a person’s strong willpower is the most effective tool in overcoming any form of addiction.

The Minister highlighted the government’s wholehearted effort to eradicate substance abuse in the state and urged the citizens to refrain from substance use and contribute to creating a healthier community. He also commended the police department for its relentless efforts in maintaining a safer environment.

Reflecting on modern society, he remarked on how technological advancements have disrupted human relationships and daily routines, even among family members. He encouraged the audience to report cases of substance use and assured that the government is committed to addressing public concerns.

DC Namchi, Ms Anupa Tamling, in her address, thanked the various departments for their efforts in conducting a successful mock drill organised the previous day.

She noted that the next focus must be on breaking the demand chain, emphasising that as long as demand exists, supply will continue and informed that meaningful change can happen only by reducing demand.

She highlighted the four phases of the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan: 1) Sahayogi Karmachari ii) Sahayogi Mitra iii) Sahayogi Sarathi iv) Sahayogi Aama

Additionally, she stressed the importance of timely reporting by staff of the concerned departments, enabling necessary support and ensuring a substance-free working environment.

She informed that specifically for government employees, the Social Welfare Department has launched a programme titled ‘Sahayogi Karmachari’. She encouraged all officials to remain attentive and responsible, particularly towards staff who may be in contact with or vulnerable to substance use.

Additional Director cum Nodal Officer Sahayogi Karmachari, Social Welfare Department Gangtok, Mr Mahesh Sharma, delivered a detailed address on the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and the Sahayogi Karmachari initiative.

He noted that, as per UN guidelines, the term “drugs’’ should not be used while addressing children below 14 years of age, as hearing the word may trigger curiosity and lead them to seek more information. Instead, terms such as substance abuse or alcohol abuse should be used in discussions concerning this age group.

Further he, emphasised the need to focus not only on healthy living but also on building a healthy society. Also he informed that the first rehabilitation centre in Sikkim was established in 2002.

He highlighted the Sikkim Anti-Drugs (SADA) Act, 2006, enacted to control, regulate, and prevent the abuse of drugs and controlled substances, as well as to curb illicit trafficking within the state. He further informed that at present Sikkim has a total of 15 rehabilitation centres.

Moreover, he delivered a comprehensive presentation on Sahayogi Karmachari and Drug Demand Reduction in Sikkim, covering key areas such as the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), India’s geopolitical vulnerability to drug trafficking, rehabilitation facilities in Sikkim, community mobilisation initiatives, major legal actions against trafficking, and the role of karmacharis in rehabilitation centres in 2025, among other points.

He outlined the three key components of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: i) Supply Reduction ii) Demand Reduction iii) Harm Reduction

He explained that grassroots-level awareness activities are carried out through four components: Sahayogi Karmachari, Sahayogi Mitra, Sahayogi Sarathi, and Sahayogi Aama with Sahayogi signifying “support”.

He further announced that Sahayogi Aama will be officially launched in December 2025 through Self Help Groups (SHGs) across various villages.

Additionally, he briefed the gathering on the objectives of the Sahayogi Karmachari Programme, which include forming Nasha Mukt Cells, identifying and supporting affected individuals, and ensuring systematic record and reporting mechanisms.

Senior Consultant, Centre for Addiction Medicine Chuwatar, Dr Satish Rasaily, informed the gathering about the various services provided by the centre. He stated that the facility is dedicated to treating individuals with substance use disorders by offering detoxification, rehabilitation services, counselling, psychological support, and several other essential interventions.

He expressed concern over the rise of addiction, stating that it is affecting individuals like a contagious condition, spreading rapidly across different sections of society.

He outlined the three ways in which drugs are commonly used:

• Social Use – often influenced by peers or social settings.

• Abuse or Harmful Use – At this stage, the individual begins using substances in a manner that causes physical, mental, or social harm.

• Addiction – The final and most severe stage, where the person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance.

Further he, explained that substance addiction has far reaching consequences, noting that it has even contributed to a reduction in the Total Fertility Rate (TFR).

He also categorised drugs into two types:

i) Legal Drugs – including substances such as tobacco and alcohol, which are legally available but still harmful when misused.

ii) Illegal Drugs – substances that are prohibited by law, including narcotics and psychotropic substances.

He added that skill development should be included as an essential part of rehabilitation, enabling individuals to rebuild their confidence and reintegrate into society with better opportunities.

Additionally he explained the two phases of treatment offered at the Centre for Addiction Medicine:

• Detoxification (Detox) – The first stage, where individuals are medically supported to safely manage withdrawal and reduce physical dependence.

• Rehabilitation – The next phase, focusing on counselling, behavioural therapy, and psychological support to prevent relapse and help individuals return to a healthy routine.

Moreover he, informed that short course therapy has shown better outcomes for employees compared to longer treatment plans, this therapy usually lasts 15–21 days, with the option of extending it if needed. He also noted that treatment for addiction is technically a lifelong process, requiring continuous care and support.

He, added that urine test results can vary depending on an individual’s recent substance consumption. He explained that such tests are being effectively used by the state police department to monitor and identify substance use.

Lastly, he engaged with an interactive discussion, during which officials shared their thoughts and raised relevant questions.

The programme also featured a pledge ceremony against drug abuse, led by the Chief Guest, followed by an e-pledge to be completed by all participants in support of a healthier society.

Also present during were, Sr SP Namchi Mr Karma Gyamtso Bhutia, ADC (HQ) Mr Subash Ghimirey, ADC Namchi Ms Tirsang Tamang, SDM (HQ) Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia, Welfare Officer Mr Sonam Dadul Bhautia, HoOs along with two subordinates from various line departments.