A one-day football tournament was organised by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer, East Khasi Hills District, in collaboration with the Inter Rehabilitation and Counselling Centre, Rangdajied United Football Club (RUFC), Manbha Foundation, New Hope Foundation, New Life Centre and Kripa Foundation at the RUFC Performance Centre, Lumshyiap, Shillong, as part of the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 and Nasha Mukt Bharat Saptah 2026.
The programme was held under the theme, “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan – Viksit Bharat ki Pehchaan,” with the objective of promoting a drug-free society through awareness, rehabilitation and positive engagement, particularly among the youth.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ghosh, In-charge of Kripa Foundation ODIC, highlighted the importance of rehabilitation, counselling and community support in helping individuals recover from substance abuse and successfully reintegrate into society.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, D. Kharshiing, appreciated the organisers for conducting programmes to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. She encouraged rehabilitation centres to continue promoting sports and other constructive activities as a means of helping recovering individuals lead healthy, productive and fulfilling lives free from addiction.
The programme also featured the prize distribution ceremony for the reel competition. Rev. E.C. Marwein, Director of New Life De-addiction Centre, presented cash prizes and certificates to the winners. Joel Kharshiing won the first prize and received a cash award of ₹8,000 along with a certificate. Rishot Baskhem Kharlyngdoh secured the second prize and received ₹5,000 and a certificate, while Ethan Greovani Lyngdoh Mawphlang claimed the third prize and received a cash prize of ₹3,000 along with a certificate.
In the football tournament, New Hope Centre emerged champions in the women’s category after defeating Kripa Foundation. In the men’s category, New Hope Centre defeated Manbha Foundation to lift the title.
The organisers expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to encourage young people to adopt healthy lifestyles, stay away from drugs and contribute towards building a drug-free society.
