Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd) on Monday, 15 June urged the people of the state to embrace the Mizo value of 'Tlawmngaihna' — the spirit of selflessness, compassion and voluntary service — and called for a unified, sustained effort against drug abuse and trafficking in Mizoram. The appeal came as Singh extended greetings to the Young Mizo Association (YMA) on the occasion of its 91st Foundation Day.

Governor's Message to the YMA

In a message shared on social media, the Governor described the YMA as the largest socio-cultural and voluntary organisation in Mizoram, noting that it has remained at the forefront of community service since its founding. He commended the association for its consistent efforts in helping those in need, preserving Mizo culture, traditions and heritage, and for supporting the government in implementing welfare and development initiatives.

Singh expressed confidence that the YMA would continue to work in close cooperation with the government and various sections of society for the progress and welfare of both Mizoram and the nation.

The Drug Menace: A Growing Concern

Expressing serious concern over the rising narcotics threat, the Governor emphasised the urgency of strengthening the collective response to drug abuse and trafficking. He called on citizens to foster unity across all sections of society, respect their elders, remain rooted in the state's cultural heritage, and stay away from drugs and substance abuse.

This comes amid growing alarm over the increasing inflow of narcotics into Mizoram, a state that shares a porous border with Myanmar — a key corridor for illegal drug movement into Northeast India.

State-Wide Anti-Drug Campaign

The Mizoram government, in partnership with the YMA, launched a state-wide anti-drug campaign last year to curb trafficking and substance abuse. The operation deployed a 30-member police squad working in close coordination with the YMA, community leaders, and other enforcement agencies.

Special focus was placed on strengthening surveillance along the India-Myanmar border and inter-state boundaries with neighbouring Northeastern states, which are frequently used as transit routes for illegal narcotics.

What the Government Said

Mizoram Home Minister K Sapdanga had earlier noted that the growing inflow of drugs has adversely affected society, stressing that coordinated efforts involving the government, civil society organisations and local communities are essential to protect the state's future. He described the campaign as a reflection of the strong partnership between the government and civil society groups — particularly the YMA — in combating the drug menace.

The Road Ahead

With the YMA's 91st Foundation Day serving as a renewed rallying point, the Governor's appeal underscores the critical role that civil society must play alongside law enforcement in addressing Mizoram's drug crisis. Whether the partnership between the state government and organisations like the YMA can translate awareness into measurable reduction in drug inflow remains the central challenge going forward.