Buddhist Integration for Promotion of the Role of Local Government Officials in Narcotic Drugs Prevention and Suppression in Phak Khuang Subdistrict, Thong Saen Khan District, Uttaradit Province

Abstract

This research article aims to (1) study the role of local government officials in the prevention and suppression of narcotic drugs, (2) examine the relationship between the principles of Papanikadhamma and the role of local government officials in narcotic drugs prevention and suppression, and (3) present a Buddhist integrated approach to the principles of Papanikadhamma to enhance the role of local government officials in narcotic drugs prevention and suppression in Pak Kwang Subdistrict, Thong Saen Khan District, Uttaradit Province. This study employs a mixed-methods approach: (1) Quantitative research involved collecting data through questionnaires from a sample group of 382 people, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, and (2) qualitative research was conducted using structured in-depth interviews, with data analyzed descriptively. The study's results found that 1) the overall level of the role of local government officials in narcotic drugs prevention and suppression was high, 2) the relationship between the principles of Papanikadhamma and the promotion of the role of local government officials in narcotic drugs prevention and suppression was overall positively correlated at a high level with statistical significance, and 3) guidelines for promoting the role of local government officials in narcotic drugs prevention and suppression include: (1) Chakkhuma, which emphasizes a clear vision and foresight; (2) Vithuro, focusing on effective administration; and (3) Nissayasampanno, which highlights the importance of good human relations, caring, and clear and sincere communication to engage with the public in a friendly manner and listen to their opinions openly.