The programme, organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM) at the State Guest House, Taraghar, was held under the patronage of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.

Social Welfare Adviser Paul Lyngdoh attended the event as the chief guest, while actor, producer and Northeast United FC co-owner John Abraham participated as the special guest.

Interacting with students, Abraham stressed the importance of discipline, fitness and staying away from drugs.

Thanking Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, he described him as "one of the nicest human beings" and expressed his fondness for Shillong and the Northeast.

Describing the region as the "hotbed of football," Abraham announced that his football academy would be ready within the next two years.

"I want to see a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast," he said, adding that sports can become a powerful avenue for empowering young people and steering them away from substance abuse.

Echoing the sentiment, Paul Lyngdoh said Meghalaya is witnessing rapid progress in sports and youth development.

Referring to the proposed football academy, the construction of what he described as India's biggest football stadium in Shillong, and increased investment in the social sector, Lyngdoh said the state is "poised for a future brighter than the sun."

As part of the programme, the dignitaries also flagged off a vehicle provided by the Social Welfare Department with support from the DREAM Mission for the Asha Bhavan Rehabilitation Centre in Tura.

The van will support rehabilitation and outreach efforts under the state's anti-drug campaign.

John Abraham was felicitated during the programme along with several Recovery Champions, including the state's youngest recovery champion, in recognition of their efforts in promoting recovery and awareness.

In her welcome address, Social Welfare Director Saloni Verma said the initiative represented more than just an awareness event.

"This programme is not merely an event, but a powerful symbol of the government's united stance against all forms of substance abuse, driven by a focus on prevention, recovery and hope," she said.

Verma thanked Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his leadership and highlighted the DREAM Mission, launched in 2022, as a key pillar of the state's anti-drug strategy.

She also encouraged young people to emulate Abraham's commitment to fitness and discipline, saying resilience of both body and mind is essential for building a healthy society.

The programme featured testimonials and youth-focused sessions, including a personal recovery story titled "The Choice That Changed Everything" by Recovery Champion 2026 Marvin B. Warjri of the Meghalaya Users' Forum.

Youth Icon Awardee 2024 and fitness influencer Dapalei Linna Warjri delivered a presentation titled "Fit Over Fix," advocating fitness as a healthy alternative for young people.

An interactive session titled "Into the Spotlight: Conversations that Inspire" allowed students to engage directly with Paul Lyngdoh and John Abraham, while vocalist and World Championship of Performing Arts 2026 finalist Kitkupar Nongsie performed "Made for More," reinforcing the campaign's message through music.

The event concluded with participants and dignitaries taking a collective pledge at the "Dream Wall of Commitment" to work towards a drug-free Meghalaya.