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Ms. V Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary and Director General of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), inaugurated a two-day National Consultation on Health Interventions for Substance Use Disorders on September 5, 2024, in Guwahati, Assam.
In her opening speech, Zhimomi emphasized that substance use is a serious public health issue affecting both physical and mental health, as well as the social and economic well-being of the country. She highlighted the growing trend of substance use, especially in vulnerable areas in the north-eastern, northern, and central regions of India, and stressed the need for a strong response from the health system working with other key ministries and organizations.
The event saw the participation of over 75 experts from various government agencies, technical experts, and representatives from international organizations like the UNODC, UNAIDS, and WHO. State government officials from more than 15 states, as well as leaders from key health programs, including the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, National AIDS Control Program, and National Mental Health Program, also attended the event.
During the two-day consultation, experts discussed global trends in substance use, current policies, and best practices for providing comprehensive health care for substance use disorders. The event concluded with a call to action for developing clear strategies and improving national health interventions to address substance use disorders.
The event was organized by the Assam State AIDS Control Society, led by Dr. Indranoshee Das, Project Director.
