Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills leads the fight against substance abuse with ‘Ia ka Mynried’ initiative

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 23, 2025

In a proactive move to combat substance abuse and nurture youth aspirations, the East Jaintia Hills District (EJHD) of Meghalaya has launched the ‘Ia ka Mynried’ initiative. Spearheaded by the District Administration and supported by the District Mineral Foundation, the program has reached 1,826 students across 11 educational institutions through intensive winter camps.

The latest certification events took place on Tuesday at Iongkaluh, where 247 students from St. Peter Secondary School participated, and at Byndihati, where 126 students from Sacred Heart Secondary School and 315 from Byndihati Secondary School received their certifications. Santa Mary Shylla, MLA of Sutnga-Saipung Constituency, attended as Chief Guest at Sacred Heart Secondary School, Byndihati.

While several northeastern states struggle with rising substance abuse among youth, Meghalaya has adopted a forward-thinking approach, combining prevention with skill development. The ‘Ia ka Mynried’ initiative aligns with the state’s Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM), integrating soft skills training with anti-substance abuse education to empower students and build resilience.

Santa Mary Shylla emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative, stating: “The winter camps have transformed students’ lives, equipping them with skills to build a better future. This is one of the best initiatives undertaken in East Jaintia Hills, and we are committed to expanding it to more schools.”

Shivansh Awasthi, Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills, highlighted the broader vision: “Beyond substance abuse prevention, this program helps students recognize their strengths and develop self-worth. It aligns with our DREAM mission by providing platforms for youth to realize their potential rather than fall prey to addiction. We aim to set a benchmark in tackling challenges that hinder youth aspirations and well-being.”

An extension of the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s vision for a drug-free Meghalaya, ‘ia ka Mynried’ is designed as a structured intervention offering students tools for personal growth. The initiative incorporates storytelling and habit-building to foster emotional intelligence and resilience, talent showcases and public speaking exercises to build confidence and communication skills and the Wellbeing Pledge, where students commit to leading a drug-free life.

Each intervention culminates in a 20-hour training period, followed by a certification event. During these events, students share their learnings and showcase their talents, reinforcing the program’s impact.

Participants have shared powerful testimonies on how the program has reshaped their outlook.

Gracious Phawa, a Class 8 student from St. Peter’s Secondary School, said: “This program has helped me build confidence and understand my emotional and mental health. Learning power stances and coping mechanisms has given me tools to navigate challenges.”

Silwillstar Shylla, a Class 9 student from Byndihati Secondary School, shared: “Before this program, I never thought about how I stand or communicate. Now, I feel more confident in speaking and interacting with others.”

The initiative has already been implemented in 11 schools, including Khliehriat Higher Secondary School, Rymbai Government Secondary School, and Sacred Heart Upper Primary School. Plans are in place to extend it to more institutions, reinforcing Meghalaya’s dedication to youth development.

The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) plays a crucial role in supporting mining-affected communities through initiatives like ‘ia ka Mynried’. The program is powered by Avenues, North East India’s leading life coaching and personal excellence training social enterprise. Headquartered in Meghalaya, Avenues has been driving high-impact youth empowerment programs for over 22 years, fostering confidence, well-being, and personal growth.