The District Administration and District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Beti Bachao Beti Padhao - Mission Shakti, in collaboration with the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), Chumoukedima, organised an awareness programme at Government High School, Diphupar B on 13th August, 2025.

Resource persons of the program Ikali Wokhami, District Mission Coordinator, and Vera Sapu, Gender Specialist, DHEW–BBBP Mission Shakti, spoke on Substance Abuse and Peer Pressure and Menstrual Hygiene and Health. Students were informed that substance abuse is not limited to illegal drugs but also includes alcohol, tobacco, gutka, prescription drug misuse, cannabis, and inhalant abuse. The harmful effects of tobacco, smoking, alcohol, and other substances were highlighted, along with the importance of making informed choices and supporting peers in prevention and recovery. 

Also highlighted that according to the study conducted, 43% of students in Nagaland uses of tobacco are from middle school and 44% are introduced to this substances through friends, while Nagaland has higher than average when it comes to substance abuse.

Menstrual hygiene awareness was given to both boys and girls to encourage openness and understanding, and feminine hygiene kits were distributed to all female participants.

A pledge ceremony under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan was led by Philomena, Inspector, Social Welfare Department, reaffirming the commitment to work towards a drug-free community.

(Tovikali, IA, Chumoukedima)