Administrative Secretary, Social and Tribal Welfare Department, Ladakh, Nidhi Malik, accompanied by Director, District Social Welfare Department, Dr Zahida Bano, visited the Mahabodhi Meditation Centre and held discussions regarding rehabilitation support for drug addicts with spiritual leader and monk Bhikkhu Sanghasena.
Nilza Angmo, manager-cum-incharge of the Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation Centre (DDAC), Leh, was also present during the meeting, which aimed at strengthening rehabilitation and care facilities for individuals affected by substance abuse in Ladakh.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the growing concern of drug addiction and substance abuse among youth and the urgent need for creating a well-equipped and supportive rehabilitation environment in the region. Bhikkhu Sanghasena highlighted that drug addiction has emerged as a serious social challenge affecting families and communities, and stressed the importance of collective efforts by government institutions, social organisations and community leaders to address the issue effectively.
Reaffirming Mahabodhi’s commitment towards social welfare and humanitarian service, Bhikkhu Sanghasena assured full cooperation and support for shifting the Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation Centre (DDAC), Leh, to the Mahabodhi campus.
He stated that the initiative would help provide a peaceful, supportive and recovery-oriented environment for individuals undergoing rehabilitation and treatment, an official statement said.
During the visit, Bhikkhu Sanghasena also showed the proposed space identified for accommodating DDAC Leh within the Mahabodhi campus and discussed facilities that could be made available for smooth functioning of the centre.
Nidhi Malik appreciated the support extended by Mahabodhi and emphasised the importance of strengthening rehabilitation infrastructure and counselling services in Ladakh to address the increasing challenges posed by substance abuse. She directed the DDAC manager to initiate the necessary formalities and procedural requirements for shifting the centre in a timely and coordinated manner.
The meeting also discussed the need for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the concerned authorities and Mahabodhi at the earliest to facilitate smooth implementation of the initiative. Both sides expressed commitment towards working collaboratively for the welfare, rehabilitation and social reintegration of individuals affected by drug addiction in Ladakh.