Sri Vijaya Puram, June 25: With drug abuse continuing to pose a serious social challenge, South Andaman Police intensified public outreach efforts across multiple islands during Anti-Drugs Awareness Week, conducting awareness campaigns, community engagement programmes and youth activities aimed at strengthening the fight against narcotics under the vision of #NashaMuktBharat.
The district-wide initiative covered Hut Bay, Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep, where police personnel engaged with fishermen, local residents, youth, traders and members of the public to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of community participation in preventing drug-related activities.
At Hut Bay, South Andaman Police organized awareness sessions for fishermen and local residents. The programme focused on educating participants about the harmful consequences of drug abuse, provisions under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the role of public vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious activities linked to narcotics. Participants were encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in efforts to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse.
In Swaraj Dweep, police used sports as a platform for community engagement by organizing a friendly football match involving local youth. The event promoted healthy lifestyles and highlighted sports and recreation as positive alternatives to substance abuse. The programme also served as an opportunity to spread anti-drug messages among young participants and reinforce awareness about the risks associated with narcotics.
At Shaheed Dweep, police teams conducted awareness drives in market areas, reaching out to villagers, shopkeepers and members of the public. The campaign focused on educating people about the social, economic and health consequences of drug abuse and its impact on families and communities. A road march carrying anti-drug awareness banners was also organized to reinforce the message of collective responsibility in combating the drug menace.
The awareness programmes formed part of South Andaman Police’s broader strategy to address drug abuse through a combination of prevention, community participation and enforcement measures. The department reiterated its commitment to creating a drug-free society through sustained public engagement and coordinated action.
Police have appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and actively support anti-drug initiatives by sharing information related to drug trafficking or other illegal activities. Information can be provided through the MANAS Helpline (1933), the Anti-Narcotics WhatsApp Helpline (9531856080), or by contacting police on 112 and 03192-236641. Authorities stated that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
South Andaman Police said community participation remains a key component in efforts to prevent drug abuse and strengthen public safety across the district.
