The Meghalaya government has announced a major initiative to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse in the state, with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma announcing on October 8, 2025, that the government will set up detox and de-addiction centres in all district headquarters within the next few months under the state’s flagship Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM).
The decision was made during a high-level review meeting attended by officials from various departments, stakeholders, and faith-based organisations. Sangma said both the **Health and Social Welfare Departments** have been directed to create essential infrastructure for the new facilities across the state.
“We are hopeful that in the next three to four months, all district headquarters will have fully functional detox and de-addiction centres,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that the centres could operate through government hospitals, private institutions, or NGOs willing to collaborate with the government. Discussions also included developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training staff to manage the centres effectively.
In addition to expanding rehabilitation infrastructure, Sangma said the government has directed the state police to intensify their crackdown on illegal drug trade and peddling hotspots across Meghalaya.
“The police have been instructed to act in a strict and aggressive manner. Surprise checks will be conducted regularly, and no stone will be left unturned to dismantle illegal networks,” Sangma stated.
He announced that CCTV cameras will be installed in vulnerable areas and that joint enforcement operations involving police, excise, and community groups will be conducted regularly.
Sangma also emphasised that while the police have successfully curbed the supply side, greater focus must now be placed on the “retail level”, where drugs reach the youth.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is fully committed to eradicating drug abuse in Meghalaya.
“The government is very serious about this issue. In the coming days, you will see stronger actions from the police, health, and social welfare departments, working together with community organisations to eliminate the menace,” he said.
He further added that the government will review the cost and pricing structure of detox and de-addiction services to ensure they remain affordable and accessible.
“Even if there is one drug user, it is alarming for me. We will not stop until the last user is rehabilitated and Meghalaya becomes completely drug-free,” Sangma concluded.
The Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) is Meghalaya’s comprehensive initiative to combat drug abuse through prevention, rehabilitation, and enforcement
It aims to coordinate efforts between government departments, law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and community organisations to make the state entirely drug-free.
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