Meghalaya ramps up its anti-drug awareness initiative, featuring actor John Abraham, who encourages youth to pursue sports and fitness as alternatives to substance abuse.
Shillong, India Jul 31, 2026 ALN: Shillong: Meghalaya on Friday intensified its anti-drug awareness campaign by bringing together students, recovering drug users, government officials, and actor-producer John Abraham, who urged young people to stay away from substance abuse and pursue discipline through sports and fitness.
The anti-drugs awareness programme, organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), was held at the State Guest House, Taraghar, under the theme “Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs.”
This initiative comes at a time when drug abuse is a growing concern across India, including the northeastern states, which have been facing an alarming increase in substance use, particularly among the youth. The region's geographical proximity to drug-producing countries has made it a significant transit route for narcotics. This reality has necessitated urgent action from both government and civil society to combat the drug menace.
The programme was attended by Social Welfare Adviser Bah Paul Lyngdoh as chief guest and John Abraham, actor, entrepreneur, and co-owner of Northeast United FC, as the special guest. Abraham, known for his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for fitness, used the platform to connect with the youth and promote a healthy lifestyle.
During an interactive session with students, Abraham spoke about the importance of discipline, fitness, and sports in steering young people away from drugs. Expressing his affection for Shillong and the Northeast, he described the region as a “hotbed of football” and said he believes it has the potential to produce world-class footballers. This sentiment is particularly relevant as the region has been making strides in sports, with increasing investments in athletic development and facilities.
He also thanked Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his support towards sports development in the state and said Northeast United FC’s football academy near Shillong is expected to be ready within the next two years. This academy is part of a broader initiative to harness local talent and provide young athletes with the resources they need to succeed in competitive sports.
“I want to see a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast,” Abraham said, while encouraging students to resist peer pressure and lead substance-free lives. His appeal resonates with the aspirations of many young people in the region who look for role models and pathways to success that do not involve drugs.
Echoing the message, Paul Lyngdoh highlighted the state’s growing investments in sports and youth development. He referred to the upcoming football academy, the proposed football stadium in Shillong, and other youth-focused initiatives, stating that Meghalaya is creating opportunities that can help young people realise their potential. The government's focus on sports is not just about physical activity; it aims to instill values such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline, which are essential in combating the allure of substance abuse.
The programme also saw the inauguration of a vehicle provided by the Social Welfare Department with support from the DREAM Mission for the Asha Bhavan Rehabilitation Centre in Tura. The vehicle will be used to strengthen rehabilitation and outreach efforts under the state’s anti-drug campaign. This initiative is particularly significant as it highlights the commitment to not only raise awareness but also provide tangible support for those recovering from addiction.
John Abraham was felicitated during the event along with several recovery champions, including the state’s youngest recovery champion, in recognition of their efforts to spread awareness against substance abuse. Recognizing individuals who have overcome addiction serves as a powerful reminder of the possibility of recovery and the importance of community support.
Delivering the welcome address, Social Welfare Director Saloni Verma said the programme reflects the government’s continued focus on prevention, treatment, and recovery in tackling drug abuse. She highlighted the work being carried out under the DREAM Mission, launched in 2022, which aims to provide a comprehensive approach to drug prevention and rehabilitation. Verma urged young people to draw inspiration from Abraham’s commitment to fitness and healthy living, emphasizing that positive lifestyle choices can lead to fulfilling lives devoid of substance dependence.
The event also featured personal stories from individuals who have overcome addiction. Recovery Champion Marvin B. Warjri of the Meghalaya Users’ Forum shared his journey of recovery during a session titled “The Choice That Changed Everything,” which underscored the power of personal choice and the impact of supportive communities in the recovery process. His story serves as a testament to the resilience of individuals who have faced the challenges of addiction and emerged stronger.
Additionally, youth icon and fitness influencer Dapalei Linna Warjri encouraged participants to embrace fitness as a positive alternative to substance abuse through her presentation, “Fit Over Fix.” Her message aligns with the broader theme of the event, promoting healthy living as a proactive measure against drug use.
Students also interacted directly with Abraham and Lyngdoh during a question-and-answer session, providing them with an opportunity to express their thoughts and concerns regarding drug abuse and its impact on their lives. Such interactions are crucial in fostering open dialogues about the challenges faced by the youth and the importance of community engagement in addressing these issues.
The programme featured a performance by vocalist Kitkupar Nongsie, a finalist at the World Championship of Performing Arts 2026, who performed a musical piece promoting hope and resilience. Music and art often play significant roles in community healing and can serve as powerful tools for conveying messages about recovery and the importance of making positive choices.
The programme concluded with participants taking a collective pledge at the “Dream Wall of Commitment,” reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free Meghalaya. This symbolic act not only reinforces the individual resolve of the participants but also emphasizes the collective responsibility of the community in combating drug abuse. Such initiatives are vital in creating a supportive environment where young people can thrive without the influence of drugs.
In conclusion, the intensified anti-drug campaign in Meghalaya, bolstered by the support of prominent figures like John Abraham, reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse in the region. By emphasizing sports, fitness, and community engagement, the initiative aims to empower young people to make informed choices and build a healthier, drug-free future. The collaboration between government, celebrities, and local communities highlights the multifaceted nature of the fight against drug abuse and the importance of sustained efforts in prevention, treatment, and recovery.
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