East Khasi Hills hosts 5K run to mark Anti-Drug Day

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 4, 2025

To mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), East Khasi Hills, in collaboration with the District Administration, District Sports Office, and the East Khasi Hills District Athletics Association, organised a 5K Run on June 3 under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan campaign.

The event aimed to spread awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, particularly among the youth. Participants gathered early in the morning at the starting point, where the programme began with an address by District Social Welfare Officer E. Kharchandy. She welcomed the participants and outlined the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, stressing the role of young people and the importance of community involvement in the fight against drug abuse.

Deputy Commissioner in-charge of East Khasi Hills District, P.K. Sangma, spoke briefly on the urgent need for collective action and sustained awareness to tackle the issue of substance abuse. She then led a pledge-taking ceremony, with all participants vowing to stay away from drugs and spread the message of a drug-free lifestyle.

At exactly 7:00 AM, the Deputy Commissioner flagged off the 5K Run. The marathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, athletes, youth organisations, NGOs, and residents from various parts of the district. Anti-drug banners and placards were prominently displayed along the route, reinforcing the spirit of the campaign.

In the female open category, Monlangki Kyndait emerged as the winner, followed by Mary Queen Pale in second place and Rukini R.T. Dkhar in third. In the male open category, Knerlang Phawa secured the first position, while Marshal Wanniang and Rangki Jonathan Pathaw came in second and third respectively.

The District Social Welfare Officer presented prizes to the female winners, while the Deputy Commissioner awarded the male winners. Cash prizes and certificates of participation were given to the top ten finishers in both categories, along with consolation prizes.

Concluding the event, the District Social Welfare Officer expressed heartfelt thanks to all departments, volunteers, schools, and youth organisations for their support and participation. The Deputy Commissioner also extended her appreciation, commending the unified effort in making the programme a success.

To strengthen the anti-drug message, pamphlets and leaflets were distributed to participants and members of the public, offering vital information on the harmful effects of drug abuse and resources for support. The event ended on a high note, reflecting the district’s continued commitment to a drug-free future through sport and community engagement.