Overview

This intensive 5-day residential program was designed to enhance the capacity of Bhutanese government officials in addressing substance abuse issues. The program featured a blend of theoretical sessions and practical exposure.

Resource persons, including international experts in addiction treatment and rehabilitation, were invited to share their knowledge and experiences. The curriculum covered a wide range of topics, including: 3

  • The science of addiction
  • Effective intervention techniques
  • Rehabilitation models and best practices
  • Policy and program development

A key component of the program was a field visit to a leading rehabilitation center. This visit allowed participants to observe firsthand the implementation of rehabilitation programs and interact with professionals and clients. The program concluded with a workshop focused on developing action plans for applying the learned knowledge in the Bhutanese context.

Chief Patron:

  • Mr. P. K. Gupta (Hon’ble Chancellor, Sharda University)
  • Mr. Y. K. Gupta (Hon’ble Pro- Chancellor, Sharda University)

Patron:

  • Dr. Sibaram Khara (Hon’ble Vice- Chancellor, Sharda University)

Objectives of Event

Knowledge and Awareness:

  • To enhance participants' understanding of substance abuse, including types of substances, their effects, and related risks.
  • To familiarize participants with the prevalence of substance abuse in Bhutan and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.

Skill Development:

  • To equip participants with the skills to identify individuals with substance abuse problems.
  • To empower participants to develop and implement effective prevention strategies in their respective roles.
  • To enable participants to provide appropriate support and referrals for individuals with substance abuse issues.

Policy and Advocacy:

  • To foster a deeper understanding of national and international drug control policies and their implications for Bhutan.
  • To equip participants with the knowledge and skills to advocate for evidence-based policies and programs to address substance abuse.

Convener Details

  • Prof. (Dr.) Anviti Gupta (Dean, Sharda School of Humanities & Social Sciences)
  • Dr. Ashok Daryani, Director, International Relations Division, Sharda University

Co-ordinators:

  • Ms. Somya Sharma, Psychological Counsellor, Abhivyakti Wellness Clinic, SSHSS
  • Ms. Moon Verma, Research Assistant, SSHSS

Speaker Details:

  • Dr Anviti Gupta Dean Sharda School of Humanities & Social Sciences Clinical Hypnotherapist & Certified Psychologist
  • Dr Abhinit Kumar MBBS, MD, DPM, FIPS, FAPSI Professor of Psychiatry & Additional Medical Superintendent, Sharda Hospital
  • Dr Nikhil Nayar MBBS, MD, DPM, FIPS, FAPSI Assistant Professor of Psychiatry , Sharda Hospital
  • Dr. Purvi Vats MBBS, DPM, MD Psychiatry
  • Dr Rabya Umman RCI Licensed Clinical Psychologist Specialisation in Substance Abuse Assessment & Neuropsychological Treatment
  • Dr. Sakshi Mehrotra Professor of Practice in Psychology, Counselling Psychologist
  • Ms. Ishani Ahuja RCI Licensed Counsellor, Expressive Arts Therapist
  • Ms Yashita Khera RCI Licensed Rehabilitation Counsellor
  • Dr. Tarkesh Patel Faculty of Law, Sharda University
  • Ms Somya Sharma Health Psychologist Sharda University
  • Ms. Moon Verma Research Assistant Specialisation in Cognitive Neuroscience