Sri Vijaya Puram, May 01: A month-long anti-drug awareness campaign led by the Anti-Narcotics Police Station reached nearly 1,200 people across key locations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as authorities intensified efforts to curb drug abuse and illicit trafficking through sustained community engagement.
The campaign, conducted from April 1 to April 30, 2026, covered Sri Vijaya Puram, Swaraj Dweep and Kadamtala, focusing on spreading awareness among students, youth, government employees and local communities. Officials reported that a total of 11 programmes were organised during the period, engaging 1,199 participants across diverse public settings.
Police carried out awareness sessions in schools, colleges, government institutions, panchayats, tourist spots and fish landing points to ensure wider outreach. The initiative aimed to educate citizens on the harmful effects of drug consumption, legal consequences of involvement in narcotics, and the need for early intervention and rehabilitation.
The campaign was conducted under the supervision of Inspector K. Binoj, Station House Officer of the Anti-Narcotics Police Station, and under the leadership of Dy. Superintendent of Police (Narcotics) Suma Madda. Resource personnel from the Anti-Narcotics unit, including SI Manoj Lal, ASI Surya Narayan, ASI S. Thimmi Raj and ASI Sanjay Yadav, along with HC Abdul Salam, HC Laxman Rao and PC Anup Das, led interactive sessions, lectures and outreach programmes during the campaign.
As part of the broader Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the police coordinated with panchayats, educational institutions, the Social Welfare Board, the Education Department and the Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts to strengthen awareness efforts. The programmes focused on prevention strategies and highlighted the importance of community participation in tackling drug-related issues.
Officials also promoted the MANAS Helpline-1933 as a support system for individuals facing substance abuse and mental health challenges. Participants were encouraged to seek timely counselling and assistance through the helpline, which offers guidance and rehabilitation support.
The campaign included the distribution of pamphlets, installation of posters and standees, and motivational sessions promoting a drug-free lifestyle. Authorities placed particular emphasis on engaging young people, urging them to avoid substance abuse and contribute to building a responsible society.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (CID) Jitendra Kumar Meena reviewed the initiative and underscored the role of awareness and public cooperation in addressing drug abuse and trafficking. He called on citizens to remain alert and assist law enforcement agencies in identifying and reporting illegal activities.
Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining a drug-free environment in the islands and stated that similar awareness initiatives and enforcement measures would continue. Citizens have been urged to share information related to drug abuse or trafficking through the Anti-Narcotics Police Station helpline at 9531856080, emergency number 112, or MANAS Helpline-1933.
