Sikkim Government College, Namchi successfully hosted an awareness programme on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, on November 18, 2025. The initiative, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched on August 15, 2020, marks five years of nationwide efforts toward reducing substance abuse and promoting a drug-free society.
The event saw active participation from students, faculty members, and officials of the Social Welfare Department. Three key resource persons addressed the gathering on critical issues related to drug abuse, addiction, and preventive measures. The speakers included; Mr. Ram Tamang, Deputy Director, Social Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, Ms. Shristika Kharel, Welfare Inspector, Social Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, Mr. Suren Gurung, Male Nurse, Centre for Addiction Medicine, Chuwatar, Singtam.
The programme commenced with an online pledge led by Ms. Kharel, reaffirming the collective commitment toward creating a drug-free environment.
Addressing the students, Mr. Ram Tamang emphasized the importance of community engagement and warned against social isolation, which often leads individuals, especially youth to seek belonging through substance use.
Mr. Suren Gurung, speaking on the progression of addiction, highlighted how seemingly harmless habits can gradually evolve into serious dependence if not checked early.
The session was hosted by Dr. Yugal Kishore Khanal, Dean of Student Affairs, SGC Namchi. Ms. Diki Ongmoo Lepcha, Assistant Professor, Department of Education, delivered the welcome address, stressing that awareness and early education serve as the first line of defence against addiction.
Dr. Deepak Tiwari, Principal, Sikkim Government College, Namchi, graced the programme and appreciated the efforts of the Social Welfare Department in spreading awareness among the youth. The programme concluded with a note of vote of thanks by Dr. Santosh Subba, Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Sikkim Government College Namchi.