India: Family United Programme launched in Guwahati with a focus on preventing drug use and negative social outcomes, through stronger family support

Guwahati, Assam/15 October 2024: Families play an irreplaceable role in shaping the lives of young people, often acting as their primary protective shield against harmful influences. A strong family structure can be a crucial line of defense against challenges like substance abuse, violence, and behavioral issues. In this context, the UNODC Family United Programme bolsters family bonds to build resilient communities.

An inception meeting organized by the Recovery Wellness Society in collaboration with the Directorate of Social Justice and Empowerment, Assam and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India launched this vital initiative in Assam.

Dr. Shyamal Prasad Saikia, Chairperson of the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, and Sri Bhaskar Jyoti Manta of the Directorate of Social Justice and Empowerment led the dialogue with community leaders, parents and caregivers.

Discussions highlighted the core goals of the programme, emphasizing the need to create a supportive and protective environment within families. The programme's design centers on equipping families with essential skills to promote positive interactions, family bonding and reduce youth vulnerability to risky behaviors.

The Family United Programme centers on practical skill-building for parents and caregivers, covering strategies to enhance communication, manage conflicts peacefully, and nurture positive discipline, fostering a home atmosphere where young people feel safe and valued. The meeting underscored the importance of a community-centric approach to implementing the programme effectively.

Participants appreciated the localized translation of program materials, tailored for the Assamese audience, which ensured clarity and made the content accessible. The involvement of 12 previously trained UNODC facilitators provided a robust foundation for the initiative, as they will guide families in implementing these strategies consistently over time.

Through family-centered support, UNODC and its partners are investing in a generation that can withstand life's challenges and contribute to a peaceful, stable society.

The program will enable parents to better engage in open communication with their children, break down barriers and foster trust. For young people, this trust will translate to a stronger sense of belonging, reducing their susceptibility to negative influences outside the home.

The activity contributed to SDG 16 and SDG 17: https://sdg-tracker.org/ 

(Supported by the Government of Sweden)