Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 October 2024
Little Andaman recently hosted a Block-Level Training Program aimed at combating substance abuse, with a focus on narcotic drugs, harmful alcohol use, and tobacco. The event, organized under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), took place at the Panchayat Samiti Hall and brought together key community members to address substance abuse challenges in the region.
The program was inaugurated by Mr. S. Paramanathan, Pramukh of the Panchayat Samiti, who served as the chief guest. He was joined by Mr. Raja, Up-Pramukh, Mr. Belthazer, Block Development Officer, and Dr. Vishal Mandal, Extension Officer, who lent their support to the initiative. Experts in the field, including Ms. Namita Gopal, a specialist in Health & Sanitation, and Ms. C. Vijya, an advocate for Women Empowerment, provided valuable insights during the sessions.
Participants included Pradhans, Panchayat Secretaries, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANM), ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers from across Little Andaman. The training equipped them with the skills needed to address substance abuse issues in their communities. With the theme of creating both a ‘Healthy Panchayat’ and ‘Child-Friendly Panchayat,’ the program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), empowering local leaders and healthcare workers to promote healthier, safer environments for all residents.
The initiative is expected to make a significant impact in fostering a community-wide approach to preventing and treating substance abuse in Little Andaman, ensuring long-term well-being for its residents.