Silchar: In a major step towards strengthening community-led action against drug abuse and related social issues, District Commissioner of Cachar, Mridul Yadav, IAS, on Monday unveiled the district’s official anti-drug mascot “Nozy” and launched a powerful short film under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). The twin initiatives aim to inspire youth participation, creative engagement, and emotional mobilisation in the ongoing fight against substance abuse.

The unveiling ceremony, held at the New Conference Hall of the DC office, was attended by stakeholders, youth representatives, and community leaders. “Nozy,” the newly introduced mascot, was described by DC Yadav as a vibrant symbol of the youth’s determination to stand up against addiction. The mascot was the winning entry of an online competition and was designed by Sourav Rishi, a student of the Department of Visual Arts, Assam University. The DC felicitated Rishi with a certificate of appreciation, lauding his creativity and commitment to social causes.

Adding a strong visual dimension to the campaign, a short film addressing the emotional, psychological, and social consequences of drug abuse was also released during the programme. With a storyline rooted in real-life experiences, the film carries a hopeful message of recovery and resilience. The District Administration plans to screen the film across schools, colleges, youth clubs, and village-level platforms to spark conversation and build collective awareness.

Speaking on the occasion, DC Yadav stressed the importance of emotional and creative engagement in preventive efforts. “This fight cannot be won through enforcement alone. We must reach hearts and minds. ‘Nozy’ and this short film represent our attempt to connect with people on a deeper level,” he said.

The event also acknowledged the contributions of various institutions and organisations. The Visual Arts Department of Assam University and the Art of Living Foundation were honoured for their support in awareness campaigns through artistic expression and mindfulness training, respectively. Certificates were distributed among participants and contributors for their active roles in promoting a drug-free society.

In an extension of the day’s focus on social justice, a district-level awareness meeting on “Combating Human Trafficking and Ending Witch-Hunting” was held in collaboration with Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women. Chaired by DC Yadav and attended by ADC (WCD) Hemanga Nobis, the meeting saw participation from officials of the Education, Health, and PNRD departments.

Anjali Kumari, ACS, Assistant Commissioner and In-Charge of District Social Welfare, delivered the welcome address and outlined the importance of coordinated action to eliminate such inhuman practices. Advocate Dharmananda Deb of the District Legal Services Authority shed light on legal frameworks, including the Assam State Policy on combating trafficking and witch-hunting, while Sub-Inspector Maheshawri Das shared critical field-level insights and urged communities to remain vigilant, especially in high-risk areas.

Earlier in the day, a district-level awareness rally was organised, starting from the DC office and traversing key areas of Silchar. Participants carried placards and raised slogans calling for an end to drug abuse, human trafficking, and witch-hunting—drawing considerable public attention.

The integrated campaign reflects the Cachar District Administration’s inclusive and dynamic approach under the leadership of DC Mridul Yadav. By blending creative outreach, legal awareness, and multi-sectoral coordination, the administration continues to champion a future that is informed, empathetic, and resilient.

Promotional | Subscribe KRC TIMES e-copy