Sri Vijaya Puram, October 17: South Andaman Police has conducted anti-drug awareness programmes at six educational institutions, urging students to recognise the risks of substance abuse, make informed choices and participate in efforts to prevent drug-related activities across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The programmes, organised by the District Headquarters under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, covered Law College, JNRM College, ANCOL College, Mohanpura School, Vivekananda School and GSSS Haddo. The initiative focused on educating young people about the physical, psychological, social and legal consequences of drug abuse.
During the sessions, students were encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles and avoid narcotic substances. The programme also called on them to share information with their peers, fellow students and neighbourhood communities to widen awareness of substance abuse and its effects on individuals and families.
Police urged students to support efforts to prevent drug-related activities and invited them to volunteer for the formation and functioning of anti-drug squads. These groups would assist with awareness campaigns and public education on the risks associated with substance abuse.
The initiative seeks to involve educational institutions and young people in prevention efforts, extending awareness beyond classroom sessions to campuses and surrounding communities. Police said the programmes would continue in educational institutions and public places, with efforts expected to intensify after the festive season to encourage broader participation and sustained community engagement.
The campaign also provides channels for residents to report suspected drug-related activities. Members of the public can contact Emergency Helpline 112, the MANAS Helpline at 1933 or the Anti-Narcotics WhatsApp number 9531856080.
Residents can also share short video clips of suspected drug-related activities through WhatsApp to help authorities respond promptly and take appropriate legal action.
The awareness drive places emphasis on public participation in identifying and preventing drug-related activity, alongside efforts to inform students about the consequences of substance abuse. By encouraging young people to take part in awareness work and providing reporting channels for residents, the campaign aims to strengthen community involvement in preventing drug abuse across the islands.
The police have said they will continue anti-drug awareness activities beyond the current institutional outreach, including programmes in public places, as part of the broader objective of building a drug-free Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
