Rayhan Ahmed, Mymensingh: Mymensingh observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 on Friday with a rally, human chain, discussion meeting and prize-giving ceremony aimed at raising awareness against drug abuse.

The programme began at 10:00 am with a colourful anti-drug rally and a human chain, bringing together students from different educational institutions, government officials and employees.

Later, a discussion meeting and prize distribution ceremony was held at the Mymensingh Zila Parishad Conference Hall.

Divisional Commissioner S.M. Humayun Kabir Sarkar attended the event as the chief guest, while Saifur Rahman, Deputy Commissioner of Mymensingh, presided over the programme.

Among the special guests were Mohammad Ataul Kibria, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Mymensingh Range; Abdus Salam, Headmaster of Mymensingh Zila School; and Asaduzzaman, Additional District Magistrate of Mymensingh.

The welcome address was delivered by Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Deputy Director of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC), Mymensingh. The keynote discussion was presented by Mohammad Zafrullah Kajal, Additional Director of the DNC, Mymensingh Division.

Owners and representatives of several drug rehabilitation centres, including Sanko, Thikana, Thai, Winner, Prapti, Sa`d and Siri Rehabilitation Centres, also attended the programme.

At the end of the discussion, the chief guest and other dignitaries distributed prizes among students who participated in various competitions organised to mark the day.

Representatives from different government departments, print and electronic media, and other stakeholders were also present at the event.

The programme highlighted the importance of collective efforts by government agencies, educational institutions and the wider community in preventing drug abuse and combating illicit drug trafficking.