Gangtok: In a groundbreaking step toward fostering mental wellness and combating substance abuse, Sikkim’s Lungchok village in Sombaria witnessed the formation of its first-ever “Sarathi Samaj” on January 14.
This initiative, under the banner of Sarathi 1.0, aims to create addiction-free and mentally healthy communities across the state, aligning with the vision of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.
Sarathi 1.0, launched on December 24, 2024, in Soreng District, has been actively training Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to lead the fight against substance abuse and mental health challenges. These ASHAs, equipped with specialized knowledge, are establishing Sarathi Samajs in their respective villages, with Lungchok being the first to implement the program under the leadership of ASHA worker Goma Sharma.
The formation of the Sarathi Samaj was commemorated with a public awareness meeting held at Lungrok Salangdang’s Gram Prashasan Kendra (Village Administration Center). The event saw enthusiastic participation from local stakeholders, including the Gram Prashasan Kendra chairperson, Block Development Councillor, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) workers, and community residents.
During the event, Goma Sharma articulated the society’s mission: “Our goal is to create an addiction-free and mentally healthy village through targeted interventions, counseling, and community support.” She called upon residents to actively engage with the initiative, emphasizing the collective effort required for success.
Echoing her sentiments, the Block Councillor highlighted the broader implications of the initiative, stating, “Sarathi Society is not just an initiative but a movement. It will provide crucial support for those battling substance abuse and mental health challenges.”
The chairperson of the Gram Prashasan Kendra pledged full institutional support, assuring the community that individuals in need would be connected to rehabilitation centers and provided with necessary resources for recovery.
An operating committee comprising local leaders and representatives from various sectors has been formed to oversee the Sarathi Samaj’s activities. The committee plans to officially commence operations in February 2025, with detailed action plans to be unveiled during the upcoming Gram Sabha meeting.
This pioneering effort in Lungchok marks a significant milestone in Sikkim’s journey toward building healthier, addiction-free communities, setting a precedent for similar initiatives across the state.