Along with the rest of the world, the International Day Against Drugs Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with this year’s theme “Make Health Your ‘New High’ in Life, Not Drugs” was observed here in Aizawl with the State Chief Minsiter Lal Thanhawla as the Chief Guest.

At a function held at Aizawl, Vanapa Hall, the Chief Minister stated that Mizoram being in close proximity with the ‘Golden Triangle’, the state has to combat drugs abuse on war footing. Commending the efforts of non-governmental organizations in the sharp decline of illicit drugs hazard, the Chief Minister emphasized the need of strengthening and empowering the Excise and Narcotics Department as well as the Police Department. He expressed deep concern over several foreigners engaged in drug trafficking, adding that renewed and concentrated efforts have to be given by sons of the soil in the battle against of menace of drugs.

The Chief Minister also released a book titled ‘Ngawlveite Damna Kailawn’ written by Darthakunga.

Earlier, at a short function held at New Secretariat Complex this morning, the Chief Minister burned drugs worth Rs 22,79,00,478 at local rates, confiscated by the Excise and Narcotics Department and Police Department during the year 2011-2013.

Meanwhile, the renowned non-governmental organization in the state –the Central YMA was awarded a National Award for its tremendous contribution in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse.The award was handed over by the President of India to Mr T Sangkunga, President CYMA at a solemn function held at the Plenary Hall, Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.