Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein on Saturday urged the youths of the state to shun consumption of drugs and take the responsibility of creating a better society.

He said the growing drug addiction amongst the youth is a matter of concern for all including the policymakers and the responsible parents.

“The fight against drug abuse should involve multi-faceted policies and processes,” he said adding that the government has taken a decision to address it comprehensively and holistically through prevention, intervention, treatment, rehab and integrating the abuser back into the society.

The deputy chief minister said strict action will be initiated against government officials involved in drug-related activities may it be in any form.

Mein said this during his visit to Namsai for inaugurating a football tournament.

In his speech, the state government is working tirelessly to address all the aspirations of the younger generation.

“Youth are our assets for a brighter Arunachal Pradesh and the government is working diligently to address all their concerns,” Mein said.

Mein said games and sports play an important role in developing a vibrant society but at the same time the youths must equally concentrate on studies.

He appreciated the efforts initiated by All Namsai Area Youth Association (ANAYA) to raise awareness about drug abuse among the youths through the sporting activity.

Namsai legislator Chau Zingnu Namchoom said the government is focusing on preventive measures so that the children do not become victims of addiction.

“We must provide our youths with the required knowledge, skills and opportunities for them to excel in life,” he said.

Deputy commissioner R K Sharma also spoke on the occasion.

The first match of the tournament was played between Namsai Bazar Welfare Committee and Donyi Polo Adi Line team.

Organized by the ANAYA, the theme of the tournament is ‘Stay fit & healthy, Say no to drugs’.

Damien Lepcha is Northeast Now Correspondent in Arunachal Pradesh. He can be reached at: [email protected]