IT News
Imphal, May 15:
A joint meeting of the largest platform of rivate drug treatment centres (U-TRUST) and NGOs in the Harm Reduction Sector convened a meeting, at Radiant Resort, Maiba Khul, Imphal East today. The meeting discuss the current drug use scenario and related issues in the region. Attendees included executives from U-TRUST (Union of Treatment and Rehabilitation of Users for Social Transformation), representatives from three prominent NGOs (SASO, Care Foundation, and Kripa Society), the Secretary of MSACS Partners NGOs Forum (a conglomerate of 53 TI Partners), and endorsement from MNP+.
Extensive deliberations highlighted the urgent need for better networking and referrals between Harm Reduction and Demand Reduction sectors, as well as future coordination and joint responses to the drug use crisis. The meeting adopted several key resolutions, including the establishment of a correlation approach among participating organizations to address human rights violations against drug users, irrespective of their mode of service delivery.
A significant consensus emerged to organize a seminar focused on “strengthening existing drug treatment services and addressing rampant human rights violations of drug users amidst the prevailing ethnic violence.” This seminar will be spearheaded by U-TRUST in collaboration with other like-minded organizations and CSOs, with all participating NGOs pledging their unwavering support.
Recognizing the historical lack of a unified medium for collaboration between the Harm Reduction and Demand Reduction sectors, attendees committed to establishing a common platform to enhance cooperation and efficiency. They also agreed to maintain a healthy networking and referral system through open communication channels among Rehabilitation Centres under U-TRUST and the participating NGOs.
One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the agreement to develop an effective drug overdose response system. This system will connect private Rehabilitation Centres with the nearest TI (Targeted Intervention) Partners for immediate overdose responses. Additionally, TI partners and Rehabilitation Centres under U-TRUST will cooperate on relevant activities and during emergencies to ensure a cohesive and rapid response to drug-related issues.