Directorate of Social Welfare Organises Drug Abuse and Alcoholism Awareness-cum-Cultural Programme

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Recognises Women Achievers of the Islands by Presenting ‘Nari Shakti Award’

Port Blair, June 13:  The National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), by Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan under Directorate of Social Welfare, organized a successful drug abuse and alcoholism awareness cum cultural program at Dr. B R Ambedkar Auditorium on June 12, 2024. The event was made possible through collaboration with NGOs (Ration Rasheed, Hope Foundation, Maa Foundation, and Pankh Andaman), and centered around the empowering theme of 'women empowerment'.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director (Social Welfare) emphasized the critical importance of women empowerment and advocated for the prevention of addiction, highlighting the collective responsibility in addressing these pressing issues.

One of the highlights of the program was the recognition and honouring of several remarkable women in the islands with the Nari Shakti Award, celebrating their contributions and achievements. The awardees included, Ms. Pooja Biswas (Zumba Trainer), Mrs. Sarika Varma (Dietician & Nutritionist), Ms. Komal Anand (Social Activist, Founder President Pankh Andaman), Ms Hempriya (Home Baker), Ms. Sandhya Prakash (Event Planner), Ms. Sajitha (Primary School Teacher), Ms. Aurshia Tahir (A Women Trailblazing Entrepreneur and Former Engineer), Ms. Sushmita Mol (Director CRC), Ms Vashale Devi (Photographer), Ms. N Sajidha (Primary School Teacher), Ms. Anita Sharma (Graduate Trained Teacher), Ms. Chanchal Singh (Entrepreneur), Dr. Juliet James (Doctor), Ms Kanak Radha Chatterjee (Chief Editor, The Daily Telegrams), Ms. Nazia (Event Planner/ Coordinator/Designer), Ms Razia (Journalist), Ms Ruchi Ahuja (Social Worker), Ms. Kamala (Fisherwomen), Sister Sharmishtha (Incharge, Brahma Kumari, Port Blair) and Ms. Farida (Social Worker).  

Earlier, the program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Shri A K Biswas, Nodal Officer (SCPS) while the Program Manager (SCPS) welcomed the gathering. The Programme Officer (ICDS), Shri P.C. James and the CDPOs of Diglipur and Rangat were also present on the occasion.

The event featured a captivating dance workshop for the children of CCI Home, led by High Flying Academy, which was followed by a diverse array of cultural performances by various NGOs, including Brahmakumaris and Global Academy of Modern Fitness. The audience were treated to a mesmerizing display of classical dance, martial arts exhibitions, a fashion show, various dance forms, dramas, and more. An impactful short film named 'Bhram' by Shri Gurpreet Singh, focusing on drug abuse, was also showcased, adding depth to the awareness initiative.

All participants who showcased their talents were felicitated with certificates, recognizing their valuable contributions to the success of the program.

The program concluded with the vote of thanks by the Nodal Officer (SCPS), reinforcing the community's commitment to eradicating drug abuse and promoting women empowerment.