Shillong, June 3 : Thousands of enthusiastic participants hit the ground running in a powerful display of solidarity against substance abuse, as the East Khasi Hills District successfully organized a “5K Run” to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025. Held at the iconic Shillong Golf Club (Parking Lot), Golflink, the event was a key initiative under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, aimed at fostering a drug-free society.
The impactful morning, commencing at 7:00 AM, saw widespread coordination between the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), the District Administration, the District Sports Office, and the East Khasi Hills District Athletics Association. The primary objective was to heighten awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and inspire a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, especially among the district’s youth.
The program kicked off with an introductory address by E. Kharchandy, District Social Welfare Officer, who welcomed all dignitaries and participants. She eloquently outlined the goals of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, stressing the crucial role of community-wide involvement, particularly from young people, in building a resilient, drug-free society.
P. K. Sangma (MCS), Deputy Commissioner in-Charge, East Khasi Hills District, served as the Guest of Honour, delivering concise yet poignant remarks on the necessity of sustained awareness, collective responsibility, and active youth participation to curb substance abuse effectively. Following her address, the Deputy Commissioner in-Charge led a solemn pledge-taking ceremony, where participants vowed to abstain from drug use and champion the message of a drug-free lifestyle.
The Deputy Commissioner in-Charge officially flagged off the marathon. The run garnered enthusiastic participation from students, youth clubs, NGOs, athletes, and members of the general public. Anti-drug banners and placards prominently displayed along the route reinforced the day’s vital message.
Upon the conclusion of the marathon, the top performers were announced:
Female Winners 5K Open Category:
- Monlangki Kyndait – 1st Position
- Mary Queen Pale – 2nd Position
- Rukini R.T Dkhar – 3rd Position
Male Winners 5K Open Category:
- Knerlang Phawa – 1st Position
- Marshal Wanniang – 2nd Position
- Rangki Jonathan Pathaw – 3rd Position
Prizes were distributed to the winners, with the District Social Welfare Officer presenting awards to the female winners and the Deputy Commissioner in-Charge, East Khasi Hills District, honoring the male winners. The top 10 male and female finishers received cash prizes and consolation cash prizes, along with Certificates of Participation.
The event wrapped up with a heartfelt vote of thanks from the District Social Welfare Officer, who expressed profound appreciation to all participating departments, dedicated volunteers, schools, and youth organizations for their enthusiastic support. The Deputy Commissioner in-Charge also extended her gratitude, commending the remarkable collective effort demonstrated by the community in orchestrating such a meaningful and impactful event.
To further bolster awareness, anti-drug pamphlets and leaflets were distributed to all participants and the general public at the program’s conclusion. These materials provided essential information on the detrimental effects of drugs and guidance on seeking support or becoming advocates for a drug-free society.
The “5K Run” concluded on a high note, powerfully reinforcing East Khasi Hills District’s unwavering commitment to a drug-free future and fostering continued collaboration among various district departments.
