Guv inaugurates Psychosocial Centre, lays foundation stone for CoE at RRU Pasighat

PASIGHAT, Oct 6: Governor Lt General (Retd) KT Parnaik inaugurated the Psychotropic Substances and Psychosocial Centre and Human Performance Laboratory, and digitally unveiled the foundation stone of the Centre of Excellence for Testing of Drugs, at the Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) Pasighat Campus in East Siang district on Monday.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor highlighted the growing societal challenges of the present era—ranging from misuse of activism, religious disharmony, terrorism, and insurgency to rising cybercrime and digital propaganda. He cautioned that these issues, often targeting the youth, threaten peace, unity, and national security.

“These challenges are complex but not insurmountable,” he said, emphasizing that the way forward lies in balancing freedom with responsibility, fostering community trust, and using technology wisely. “Collective awareness and community participation are key to building a safer and more harmonious society,” he added.

Commending the RRU and the East Siang District Police for establishing the new Psychotropic Substances and Psychosocial Centre, the Governor said the initiatives represent a science-led yet humane approach to combating drug abuse—combining enforcement with rehabilitation. These steps will strengthen Arunachal Pradesh’s war against drugs and safeguard the future of its youth. He reaffirmed zero tolerance toward drug traffickers, while advocating compassion for those battling addiction.

Referring to RRU’s academic programmes, the Governor underscored the importance of Smart Policing, urging law enforcement agencies to move beyond reactive methods and adopt preventive, technology-driven, and community-focused approaches that inspire public trust.

In his message to students, Governor Parnaik urged them to pursue excellence with integrity, discipline, and innovation, and to dedicate their education to the service of the nation. “Imbibe the ‘Nation First’ spirit and contribute to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat,” he said, while commending the faculty for their dedication to nation-building.

The Governor described RRU Pasighat as a “nursery of national service, leadership, and character building,” and lauded its growing focus on sports science and sports medicine for nurturing youth potential in both academics and athletics.

He expressed confidence that RRU will continue to play a vital role in fostering a secure, healthy, and progressive society, and urged all stakeholders to sustain a culture of excellence, innovation, and service.

The event was attended by MLA and Advisor to the Minister of Hydropower, Ninong Ering, local MLA Tapi Darang, East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani, Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba, faculty members, students, and staff of RRU, Pasighat Campus.