Manipur University, 26/6/2025: The National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell of Manipur University, Canchipur, successfully organized a One-Day Awareness Programme on the theme “Mission–Drug Free Campus” to mark the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The programme was conducted under the aegis of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and the Ministry of Higher Education, Government of India.
The event was graced by several eminent dignitaries. Prof. N. Rajmuhon Singh, Former Vice-Chancellor of D.M. University, Imphal, served as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, Dean of Students’ Welfare, Manipur University; Dr. Kh. Herachandra Singh, Programme Officer, NSS Unit-I, Manipur University; Mr. Ningthoujam Roshan Singh, President, Indian Drug Users Forum, as Guest of Honour; and Dr. Laishram Santosh Singh, Programme Coordinator, NSS Cell, Manipur University, who presided over the function.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the ushering in of awareness. This was followed by an anti-drug pledge administered by the Chief Guest, promoting a collective commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.
In his welcome address, Dr. Kh. Herachandra Singh emphasized the urgent need for preventive education, active youth engagement, and campus-wide participation to foster a healthy, drug-free academic environment.
Mr. Ningthoujam Roshan Singh, serving as the resource person, shared his personal journey, shedding light on the harsh realities of drug addiction. He highlighted both the risks and the potential for recovery, calling for a collective responsibility in creating a supportive and stigma-free environment for those affected. He underscored the importance of early intervention, peer awareness, and community-level prevention strategies in combating drug use among the youth.
Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, in his address as Special Guest, reflected on the current academic environment at Manipur University. He encouraged students to develop reading habits and engage actively with books and newspapers, urging them to channel their energy into productive academic pursuits as a constructive alternative to substance abuse.
Delivering the Chief Guest address, Prof. N. Rajmuhon Singh remarked, “Books are the carriers of knowledge, wisdom, and culture. Without books, society would be devoid of meaning.” He highlighted the pivotal role of youth in nation-building and facing global challenges, and emphasized that education and awareness form the foundation for meaningful social transformation.
In his presidential address, Dr. L. Santosh Singh reaffirmed the University’s commitment to promoting a drug-free, clean, and safe learning environment. He also delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants, organizers, and stakeholders. He further emphasized the significance of campus beautification, waste management, and maintaining academic integrity as shared responsibilities of the university community.
The event concluded with a strong message: the fight against drug abuse begins with awareness, empathy, and collective action.
