Advancing its resolute commitment to eradicate substance abuse and empower the youth, the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM), successfully hosted a comprehensive Anti-Drugs Awareness Programme today. Held at the State Guest House, Taraghar, the event was anchored by the powerful theme, “Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs.”
Organized under the patronage of Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, the programme underscored the State’s broader goal of building a resilient, healthy, and drug-free Meghalaya through community participation, youth engagement, and systemic intervention.
The event was graced by Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya, Social Welfare Department, as the Chief Guest, alongside Special Guest Mr. John Abraham, Actor, Producer, Entrepreneur, and Co-owner of Northeast United FC.
In a deeply moving interactive session, Bah Paul Lyngdoh and Mr. John Abraham, emphasized the transformative power of sports and youth development in Meghalaya. Abraham extended his gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, describing him as “one of the nicest human beings,” and expressed his deep affection for Shillong and the greater Northeast. Calling the region the “hotbed of football,” he announced that his new football academy will be ready in the next two years, sharing his vision to see “a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast.” While addressing student questions about navigating negative influences and substance abuse, Abraham advocated for a disciplined, substance-free lifestyle rooted in strong values. Echoing this optimism for the Meghalaya’s youth, Bah Paul Lyngdoh highlighted Meghalaya’s rapid advancements. He pointed to the upcoming academy, the construction of India’s biggest stadium in Shillong, and massive investments in the social and youth sectors, confidently stating that the region is “poised for a future brighter than the sun.”
Dignitaries also inaugurated of a van, driven by the Government of Meghalaya’s Social Welfare Department and supported by the DREAM Mission; the vehicle is explicitly dedicated to the Asha Bhavan Rehab Centre in Tura to strengthen the State’s ongoing drug reduction, elimination, and action initiatives.
A major highlight of the day was the felicitation of Mr. John Abraham, who was honoured alongside Recovery Champions and the State’s youngest recovery champion.
Delivering the welcome address, Saloni Verma, IAS, Director, Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, said that the programme is not merely an event, but a powerful symbol of the government’s united stance against all forms of substance abuse, driven by a focus on prevention, recovery, and hope. Expressing her heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister for his visionary leadership and guidance, she highlighted the State’s efforts through the DREAM (Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission) launched in 2022. She encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from Mr. John Abraham’s dedication to fitness and discipline, emphasizing that true victory lies in building a resilient body and mind that can contribute meaningfully to society.
Moving beyond traditional speeches, the event featured deeply moving youth-centric segments. Shri Marvin B. Warjri, Recovery Champion 2026 from the Meghalaya Users’ Forum, shared a powerful personal testimony titled “The Choice That Changed Everything.” This was complemented by “Fit Over Fix,” an inspiring presentation by Dapalei Linna Warjri, Fitfluencer and Youth Icon Awardee 2024, advocating for fitness as a positive channel for youth energy.
The programme also fostered direct engagement through “Into the Spotlight: Conversations that Inspire,” an interactive session involving the participants, Bah Paul Lyngdoh, and Mr. John Abraham. Adding a creative touch to the campaign’s message, Mr. Kitkupar Nongsie, Vocalist and Finalist of the World Championship of Performing Arts 2026, delivered a stirring musical performance titled “Made for More.”
The event culminated in a powerful display of unity as all dignitaries and participants gathered at “The Dream Wall of Commitment,” taking a collective pledge to ensure a drug-free Meghalaya.
Through platforms like “Pulse of the Hills,” the Government of Meghalaya continues to strengthen its multisectoral approach, ensuring that every beat of the state resonates with hope, health, and a decisive stance against drugs.
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