The Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DHFW), Nagaland, through the Drugs Control Administration, organized the Valedictory Program of the Month-Long Induction Training for Newly Recruited Drugs Control Officers and officially launched the Narcotic & Psychotropic Online Monitoring and Auditing System (NPOMAS) at the Conference Hall of the Drugs Control Administration, DHFW, Kohima on 4th August 2026.
The program was graced by Dr. Mereninla Senlem, Principal Director, DHFW, as the Special Guest. The event marked the successful completion of a comprehensive induction training program designed to equip newly recruited Drugs Control Officers with the knowledge, skills, and professional values required for effective regulatory enforcement and public service.
During the program, the broad scope of the training, which covered technical, legal, ethical, and administrative aspects of drug regulation were highlighted. The curriculum included office management, official drafting, public relations, inspection procedures, enforcement protocols, professional conduct, teamwork, and the practical application of drug laws and ethical standards. The training aimed to bridge the gap between academic learning and field realities while preparing officers to undertake their responsibilities with confidence and professionalism.
A significant component of the training involved inter-agency collaboration and field attachments. Officers were exposed to practical learning opportunities through partnerships with police, excise, and judicial authorities. Court attachments familiarized trainees with legal filings and judicial procedures, while interactions with experienced officers and subject experts facilitated valuable knowledge transfer and mentorship.
The newly inducted officers also received practical exposure to pharmacy inspections, supply chain monitoring, and regulatory oversight mechanisms. The training emphasized the importance of continuous learning, adaptability to evolving regulatory requirements, and coordinated efforts with law enforcement and social welfare agencies to strengthen public health protection.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Narcotic & Psychotropic Online Monitoring and Auditing System (NPOMAS), a digital platform designed to modernize the monitoring and management of narcotic and psychotropic substances. The system enables real-time stock monitoring, digital record maintenance, and improved oversight of prescription details and drug distribution. The platform is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and regulatory efficiency while providing centralized access to authorized departmental officers for effective monitoring and enforcement.
The launch reflects the department’s commitment to leveraging technology for stronger regulatory governance and improved control of narcotic and psychotropic substances. The system is also expected to facilitate better coordination among enforcement agencies and support evidence-based decision-making through accurate and timely data.
In addition, the department highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the state's regulatory infrastructure through the expansion of laboratory testing capabilities, standardization of procedures across district hospitals in line with national guidelines, and the creation of systems that support effective monitoring and enforcement activities.
Addressing the gathering, speakers emphasized the critical role of Drugs Control Officers in safeguarding public health, ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The newly inducted officers were encouraged to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.
The program also acknowledged the contributions of resource persons, trainers, senior officers, and subject experts who shared their expertise throughout the month-long training. Participants expressed gratitude for the practical insights and guidance received, noting that the training had strengthened their readiness to serve the public effectively.
The event concluded with the badging of the newly recruited officers, the formal launch of NPOMAS, and a vote of thanks. The department reaffirmed its commitment to continuous professional development, technological innovation, and excellence in drug control administration to ensure better health outcomes and safer communities across Nagaland.
(DIPR)
