A New Dawn for Substance Abuse Rehabilitation in South West Khasi Hills
Bringing Hope, Healing, and Community Support
In a landmark initiative to combat substance abuse and support affected individuals, Life Care Foundation has inaugurated the first NGO-led Rehabilitation & Counseling Centre in Sohkhyllam village, Mawkyrwat Block, South West Khasi Hills. Officially launched on March 28, 2025, the center is a crucial step toward addressing Meghalaya’s rising substance abuse crisis, providing comprehensive rehabilitation, counseling, and medical support for those in need.
With a capacity for 15 individuals, the facility aims to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals struggling with addiction can recover and reintegrate into society.
Addressing a Growing Crisis
Meghalaya has been grappling with an alarming rise in substance abuse, particularly among its youth. Socio-economic hardships and a lack of accessible rehabilitation centers have intensified the crisis, leaving many without support. Recognizing this urgent need, Life Care Foundation took the initiative to establish the district’s first rehabilitation and counseling center, bringing hope and healing to an underserved region.
Speaking at the event, Renikton L. Tongkhar, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives in tackling substance abuse:
“By empowering our people and fostering a culture of support, we can overcome challenges unique to Meghalaya and ensure a brighter, addiction-free future for our youth.”
A Collaborative Effort for a Healthier Future
The inauguration was graced by Mr. Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner, who praised the Foundation’s dedication to community health and emphasized that the initiative aligns with Meghalaya’s vision for resilient and healthy communities.
“The Meghalaya Government is committed to supporting initiatives like this because, through collaborative efforts, we can build healthier communities and provide meaningful support to those battling substance abuse.” – Sampath Kumar, IAS
He also highlighted the importance of early intervention, revealing that meetings with faith leaders are underway to promote drug prevention education for young people.
Building a Stronger Support System
Beyond medical treatment and counseling, the Life Care Foundation’s new center will focus on life skills training to help individuals reintegrate into society successfully. As part of the operational framework, Hope of Life will manage the center until government-appointed staff take over. According to Bording Lyngdoh, General Secretary, Hope of Life, the first batch of patients will arrive in April 2025 for a three-month rehabilitation program. However, discussions with other centers suggest that longer support may be necessary for effective recovery.
“Despite the initial challenges, the center is now fully equipped to provide essential services to individuals battling addiction. We have also petitioned the government for a PWD road connecting the center to Mawkyrwat headquarters to improve accessibility.” – Bording Lyngdoh
A Community United for Change
The inauguration event saw overwhelming support from government officials, healthcare professionals, faith leaders, and community representatives, all committed to the success and sustainability of the initiative.
Dignitaries in attendance included:
✔ Renikton L. Tongkhar, MLA, Mawkyrwat
✔ B. Jyrwa, SP, South West Khasi Hills District
✔ T. Lyngwa, Former Deputy Commissioner, South West Khasi Hills District
✔ E. Tariang, District Social Welfare Officer
✔ Dr. F.R. Lartang, DM&HO
✔ I. Lawriniang, BDO
✔ T. Marwein, Vice President, Hope of Life
✔ Bording Lyngdoh, General Secretary, Hope of Life
✔ Representatives from churches, health institutions, and local communities
The event concluded with a call for collaboration from stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of the center.
The Life Care Foundation’s Rehabilitation & Counseling Centre is just the beginning. With continued community support, government collaboration, and public awareness, we can build a healthier, addiction-free Meghalaya.
📍 Location: Sohkhyllam village, Mawkyrwat Block, South West Khasi Hills
📅 Inaugurated: March 28, 2025