SCAC in Samdrupjongkhar - 14th March, 2025
The Social and Cultural Affairs Committee met with the
Dzongdag, Dzongrab, Thromde Executive Secretary, the Royal Bhutan Police
Officer Commanding, officers and officials from different sectors from the
Dzongkhag and Thromde, including the Regional Revenue and Customs, Regional
Industry of Commerce and Employment to discuss youth and substance abuse.
The Dzongkhag Education officer reported that in 2024, 22 students were caught with alcohol, thinner, and marijuana.
Challenges highlighted were limited rehabilitation facilities, lack of awareness, and weak enforcement.
RBP recorded 6 drug cases in 2022, 67 in 2023, 48 in 2024, and 18 in 2025. Proposed measures included strengthening border security, enforcement of rules and regulations on the sale of alcohol amongst others.
In the afternoon, the committee met with students and teachers of Samdrupjongkhar Middle Secondary School to discuss youth substance abuse. The Principal highlighted the school’s efforts, including awareness programs, mentor-mentee and peer counsellors initiative to help students with substance abuse issues.
Discussions focused on illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use, with concerns raised about open smoking, peer influence, sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors and the lack of parental guidance. Suggestions included stricter monitoring and increased drug testing for students.
This tour was made possible with the support of UNICEF.
