Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today attended the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, 2026, at the Main Auditorium, City Convention Centre in Imphal. The observance was organised by the Department of Social Welfare under the theme “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister narrated that during the late 70s, many youths started using heroin and drugs. However, at that time heroin was extremely expensive and it was largely affordable only to the children from rich families. But things have changed now, he added.
The Chief minister stated that in the wake of the 2023 crisis in Manipur, the route for drug trafficking had significantly changed. He said that drugs trafficking have largely been diverted through Mizoram State, while smaller quantities continue to be routed from Moreh to Churachandpur via roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). He added that after reaching Churachandpur, the nearest point for their distribution is Kwakta.
Recalling his recent interaction with Kwakta based Civil Society Organisations (CSO), he said the CSOs informed him that nearly 70 percent of the youths in the area are indulging in drugs. He also said that drug peddlers often allow users to purchase drugs on credit. This practice, have made the drug users get easy access to drugs, he added. He continued that those adjoining areas to Kwakta like Moirang, Kumbi and Thanga have now become vulnerable.
Khemchand Singh further narrated that as he was an active sportsperson during late seventies, he has never indulged in the use of drugs. He said that the sports can be a big defence against the use of drugs among youths. He believed that when the youths of the State engage in active participation in Sports, it will foster the spirit to refrain from the usage of drugs.
The Chief Minister stated that building a drug-free society requires the responsibility of every individual, along with the collective efforts of local clubs, Meira paibis and civil society organisations (CSOs) of the State.
Delivering his presidential speech, Robert Singh Kshetrimayum, Commissioner (Social Welfare Department) stressed that drug addiction not only affects individuals but also has a devastating impact on their families. Owing to substance abuse, many talented youths have failed to realise their potential and achieve success in life. The menace of drug addiction knows no boundaries, affecting people irrespective of their economic background, gender, or age. However, according to State data on substance abuse, a significant percentage of those addicted to drugs are individuals below the age of 20 years old.
He further stated that one of the major factors contributing to drug addiction is peer pressure, coupled with the curiosity and urge to experiment with new substances, he added.
During the programme, two memorandums were submitted to the Chief Minister. One memorandum was submitted by a representative of the Private Rehab Centre, while the other was submitted by the Welfare Association of Blind, Manipur.
The programme was attended by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Manipur, Sheikh Abdul Hakim, Director (Social Welfare); NGOs; teachers and students among others.
