Meghalaya has intensified its anti-drug awareness campaign, bringing together students, recovering drug users, government officials, and actor-producer John Abraham. The programme, organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), was held at the State Guest House, Taraghar, under the theme ‘Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs.’
The programme was attended by Social Welfare Adviser Bah Paul Lyngdoh as chief guest and John Abraham as the special guest. Abraham spoke about the importance of discipline, fitness, and sports in steering young people away from drugs. He described the Northeast as a ‘hotbed of football’ and said he believes it has the potential to produce world-class footballers.
Abraham also thanked Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his support towards sports development in the state and said Northeast United FC’s football academy near Shillong is expected to be ready within the next two years. He encouraged students to resist peer pressure and lead substance-free lives, saying ‘I want to see a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast.’
Echoing the message, Paul Lyngdoh highlighted the state’s growing investments in sports and youth development. The programme also saw the inauguration of a vehicle provided by the Social Welfare Department with support from the DREAM Mission for the Asha Bhavan Rehabilitation Centre in Tura. The vehicle will be used to strengthen rehabilitation and outreach efforts under the state’s anti-drug campaign.
John Abraham was felicitated during the event along with several recovery champions, including the state’s youngest recovery champion, in recognition of their efforts to spread awareness against substance abuse. The event also featured personal stories from individuals who have overcome addiction, including Recovery Champion Marvin B. Warjri and youth icon and fitness influencer Dapalei Linna Warjri.
Students interacted directly with Abraham and Lyngdoh during a question-and-answer session, while vocalist Kitkupar Nongsie performed a musical piece promoting hope and resilience. The programme concluded with participants taking a collective pledge at the ‘Dream Wall of Commitment,’ reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free Meghalaya.
The event reflects the government’s continued focus on prevention, treatment, and recovery in tackling drug abuse. Social Welfare Director Saloni Verma highlighted the work being carried out under the DREAM Mission, launched in 2022, and urged young people to draw inspiration from Abraham’s commitment to fitness and healthy living.
