In a strong message against substance abuse, the Assam Rifles organised an anti-drug oath-taking ceremony across Jiribam, Pherzawl, and Tamenglong districts of Manipur on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event reaffirmed Assam Rifles’ unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking in the state — a region often affected by cross-border narcotics smuggling due to its proximity to the Golden Triangle.
Districts Covered in the Campaign
| District | Key Activities |
|---|---|
| Jiribam | Oath ceremony, community awareness programmes |
| Pherzawl | Youth engagement, talks on drug prevention |
| Tamenglong | Interaction with students, pledge against drugs |
Thousands of students, youth groups, local leaders, and civil society representatives participated in the campaign. The personnel of Assam Rifles administered the anti-drug oath, encouraging the younger generation to lead a drug-free life and raise awareness within their communities.
Holistic Anti-Drug Strategy
Speaking at one of the events, an Assam Rifles official emphasized:
“Our fight against drugs is not limited to seizures and arrests. It includes educating youth, involving local communities, and building a united front against this menace.”
The campaign focused on the following approaches:
Awareness Drives: Educating youth and vulnerable populations about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with schools, NGOs, village heads, and women’s groups to spread the message.
Crackdown on Trafficking: Continued surveillance and joint operations with local police to disrupt drug supply networks.
Background
Manipur has been battling a growing drug crisis due to its strategic location near international smuggling routes. Assam Rifles, known as the “Sentinels of the North East,” has played a pivotal role in intercepting narcotics, destroying poppy plantations, and arresting traffickers.
The oath-taking ceremony is seen not just as a symbolic gesture but as part of a sustained campaign to ensure a drug-free future for Manipur. Assam Rifles’ commitment continues to strengthen the anti-drug movement in the state.