78/2025-2026

Dated Aizawl, the 29th May, 2025: The inauguration ceremony for the two-day ‘International Conference on Substance Use Disorder' (ICSUD 2025) organized by the Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Medical and Paramedical Sciences, Mizoram University, was held today at Mizoram University Auditorium. The theme of the conference was 'Global Perspectives, Local Challenges and Integrated Solution.' Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister, Health & Family Welfare; Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr. Lalhriatzuali Ralte, Director, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development Department, was the Guest of Honour.

After releasing the conference souvenir, Pi Lalrinpuii addressed the participants and delegates. In her inaugural address, she elaborated on how the substance abuse is being a major obstacle to the development of Mizo society. The Minister apprised the gatherings about the current scenario and also of the government’s response to the prevalence of drug abuse in the state.  She reiterated the importance of co-ordination and convergence in tackling the issue. She also thanked the MZU for organizing an international level conference on a very relevant issue and urged the participants to come out with better ideas and solutions to tackle the menace of substance abuse.

Another speaker of the function, Dr. Lalhriatzuali Ralte, Director, SWD briefly highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Social Welfare Department in tackling substance abuse. In this connection, she stressed upon the importance of the state and civil society to join hands with academics in putting forth a co-ordinated response.

This conference will feature speeches and paper presentations from academics and experts in the field of substance abuse disorder within and outside Mizoram. It will be attended by students, scholars and staff from various institutes, including those affiliated with the School of Medical and Paramedical Sciences, MZU, namely,  Zoram Medical College & Hospital (ZMC&H), Mizoram College of Nursing (MCON), and Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Sciences (RIPANS).

The inauguration program commenced with a welcome speech from Prof. Dibakar Chandra Deka, MZU Vice Chancellor. The program proceeded with a felicitation of special guests and invitees by Prof. Zokaitluangi, Dean, while the theme of the conference was introduced to the participants by Dr. M. Sandhyarani Devi, Convener.  The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Lalnunpuii, Organizing Secretary.