Nagaland's Youth Resources and Sports Departmreent has established five additional youth recreational and impact centers as part of the State Innovative Programme.

The centers aim to serve as vibrant hubs of activities for the youth, addressing issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, juvenile delinquency, and teen pregnancies, Northeast Now reported.

On May 22, the center in Kohima was officially launched, while the remaining four centers are being set up in Longleng, Mon, Tuensang, and Kiphire.

The project aims to provide support to young individuals facing challenging circumstances due to limited opportunities. By establishing these centers, the department aims to offer a safe and well-equipped space for the youth, fostering positive experiences and ultimately reducing crime rates.

Currently, there is a lack of privately owned or government-run centers in most parts of Nagaland. This scarcity of free community recreational centers forces many young individuals to spend their free time at home or on the streets, which contributes to various problems, such as depression, juvenile crimes, substance abuse, and teen pregnancies.

Recognizing the importance of such centers, the department emphasizes their crucial role in providing safe environments for children after school hours. By offering a healthy outlet for creativity and energy, these centers aim to contribute to long-term community improvement.

Overall, the establishment of this youth recreational and impact centers in Nagaland represents a significant step toward creating a positive and supportive environment for the youth, addressing societal challenges, and nurturing responsible citizens.