Pubdate: Tue, 26 Jun 2007
Source: Telegraph, The (India)
Copyright: 2007 The Telegraph
Contact:  http://www.telegraphindia.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2836

GOVERNOR STRESSES PREVENTION

Kohima, June 26: Nagaland Governor K. Sankaranaraya-nan sounded a 
note of caution for the state for its proximity to the Golden 
Triangle -- the hub of illegal opium production -- comprising 
Myanmar, Thailand and Laos.

Speaking at a function to commemorate International Day against Drug 
Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the State Academy Hall here, the 
governor said, "Youngsters today are more vulnerable to drugs with 
changes in traditional tribal society. Non-governmental organisations 
should generate greater awareness and fight against drug use. While 
cure is important, prevention remains the key."

India's location between the Golden Triangle and the Golden Crescent 
- -- the other opium producing belt, comprising Afghanistan, Pakistan 
and Iran -- makes it a transit route as well as a destination for 
drugs. An estimated three million people in the country are drug 
users, he said.

The governor said smuggling of drugs and opiates from Myanmar and 
prescription drugs from other places poses a threat to Nagaland and 
its sister states. "Intravenous drug use is also on the rise, which 
is alarming in view of the risk of HIV/AIDS," he said, calling upon 
central and state agencies to co-ordinate effectively in order to 
check trafficking.

"Mankind has been using drugs since time immemorial for medicinal 
purposes, recreation and even on religious occasions. However, over 
time, the harmful and addictive effects and illegal uses were 
realised, leading to international efforts to ban misuse and illicit 
trafficking," Sankaranarayanan said. "With the advancement of 
science, strong-er drugs have been synthesis-ed. Man's economic greed 
has led to illicit trade in drugs."

The governor also questioned the feasibility of prohibition when it 
came to keeping the youth away from addictive substances. "In spite 
of prohibition, liquor is still available in our state. Therefore, 
the stress should be on education, persuasion and commitment, instead 
of forcing people to abstain from liquor and drugs," Sankaranarayanan said.
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