Manipur’s Crackdown on Illegal Pharmacies and Tobacco Sales in Tamenglong Under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
In a decisive move to combat substance abuse and enhance public health, Tamenglong’s district administration, in collaboration with the Health, Education, and Social Welfare Departments, launched an enforcement drive targeting pharmacies and unauthorized tobacco sales. The operation uncovered significant regulatory violations among local pharmacies and shops, underscoring the urgent need for stricter compliance and awareness under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: A Nationwide Mission
The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), translating to “Drug-Free India Campaign,” is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment aimed at curbing substance abuse across the country. Launched in 2020, the campaign focuses on 272 districts identified as most vulnerable to drug abuse, implementing preventive, educational, and rehabilitation measures to create a drug-free society. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaanacrpro.org
Tamenglong’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Community
Tamenglong district has been actively participating in the NMBA, organizing various programs to raise awareness and reduce substance abuse. In February 2025, the district launched the NMBA for the year 2024-25, with Deputy Commissioner Dr. L. Angshim Dangshawa emphasizing the importance of community involvement in combating the drug menace. Manipur Update+2E-Pao!+2acrpro.org+2
Enforcement Drive: Uncovering Alarming Violations
The recent enforcement drive, led by Dr. Namjubou Daimai, Medical Officer and Nodal Officer of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), alongside Officer In-Charge L. Simon of Tamenglong Police Station, inspected 32 pharmacies. The findings were concerning: only one pharmacy had a CCTV system, and merely three possessed valid operating licenses. Pharmacists were found selling medications without proper prescriptions, including H Schedule drugs like sedatives and antibiotics, which poses significant health risks.
Challenges Faced by Pharmacists
Several pharmacy owners expressed frustration over license renewal issues, attributing their unlicensed status to rejections at the state level. This highlights a bureaucratic hurdle that needs addressing to ensure pharmacies operate legally and safely.
Crackdown on Unauthorized Tobacco Sales
The enforcement team also targeted shops within 100 meters of educational institutions, enforcing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. Banned items such as gutkha and other tobacco products were confiscated, and shopkeepers were reminded to display “Tobacco-Free Zone” signage as mandated by law. Manipur Update
Community Engagement: Marathons and Panel Discussions
Beyond enforcement, Tamenglong has engaged the community through events like marathons promoting the Nasha Mukt Bharat Campaign. In March 2025, a marathon organized by the District Administration and Social Welfare Department saw around 300 participants running to raise awareness against drug abuse. Additionally, panel discussions on topics like “Drug Issue vis-à-vis Social Justice” have been held, fostering dialogue and education on the societal impacts of substance abuse. Sangai Express+2Northeast Today+2Ukhrul Times+2Ukhrul Times
Government’s Ongoing Efforts
The Manipur government has demonstrated a strong commitment to eradicating drug abuse. In January 2025, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh oversaw the destruction of over 314 kg of seized drugs, including heroin and brown sugar, emphasizing the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics. India Today
The Road Ahead: Strengthening Enforcement and Awareness
While these efforts mark significant progress, continuous vigilance and community participation are crucial. Strengthening the licensing process for pharmacies, ensuring adherence to prescription regulations, and sustaining public awareness campaigns will be key in achieving a drug-free Tamenglong.India Today
Conclusion
The enforcement drive in Tamenglong under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling substance abuse, combining strict regulation with community engagement. By addressing both supply and demand, and fostering a culture of awareness and compliance, Tamenglong sets a precedent for other districts striving towards a healthier, drug-free future.
FAQs
- What is the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan?
- It’s a nationwide initiative launched by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in 2020, aiming to create a drug-free India through preventive education, awareness generation, and rehabilitation programs.Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
- Why was the enforcement drive conducted in Tamenglong?
- The drive aimed to regulate pharmacies and curb the illegal sale of tobacco products, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
- What were the main findings of the enforcement drive?
- Out of 32 pharmacies inspected, only one had a CCTV system, and three had valid licenses. Unauthorized sales of restricted medications and tobacco products near educational institutions were also uncovered.
- How is the community involved in the Nasha Mukt Bharat Campaign in Tamenglong?
- The community participates through awareness events like marathons and panel discussions, promoting education on the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging a collective stand against it.
- What steps are being taken to address the challenges faced by pharmacists in Tamenglong?
- Authorities are working to streamline the license renewal process and ensure that pharmacists adhere to regulations, including installing CCTV systems and dispensing medications only with valid prescriptions.
