The Phom Baptist Christian Association (PBCA) held a dedication program for the Serenity Home Rehabilitation/Detox Center on the 8th of September 2023, located behind Yingli College playground. The program was led by Rev. H. Baeu, President of PBCA, who offered a dedicatory prayer.
In his statement, Deputy Commissioner Dharm Raj, IAS, acknowledged the high rate of drug consumption in Longleng and Nagaland as a whole. He emphasized the need for collective responsibility and collaborative efforts to address this issue. Dharm Raj expressed the commitment of the administrative team to support creative measures to combat the drug threat in the region. He also highlighted the importance of providing recreational facilities to prevent stress-related issues among the youth.
SP Longleng, Yanger Jamir, pointed out the financial contribution of Nagaland to churches and organizations in lieu of income tax due to Article 371 A. He stressed the need for collective action and trust-building among the community, police, NGOs, and civil societies to effectively combat drug-related issues. He also emphasized the importance of focusing on the sources of drug supply.
Abou Mere, Director of Kripa Foundation Kohima, highlighted the importance of faith, science, and experience in addressing substance abuse. He called for government support in establishing recreational centers to alleviate stress among the youth. Mere urged various departments and the district administration to provide government funds, medicines, and support for the detox center.
Short speeches were also delivered by Dr. Temsu Imti, Principal of Yingli College, Dr. Lipok, MO at District Hospital Longleng, Chairman of Bhumnyu Village, Presidents of 11 wards in Longleng town council, President of Phomla Hoichem, President of Phom Peoples Council, and President of Phom Students Conference. The Longleng Town Baptist Church Youths presented a special song.
The program was chaired by S. Phakmei Phom, Youth Secretary of LTBC, and Chingthai, Pastor of Police Baptist Church, pronounced the benediction.
(Manjong Phom, IA Longleng)
