India launches drug abuse and opium cultivation awareness campaigns

Various awareness initiatives have been launched across India to combat drug abuse and educate the youth on the consequences of substance use.

In the Lohit district, Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo led a program at the Tamlaudu Festival Ground in Medo to sensitize the public and students regarding drug abuse and illicit opium cultivation. The district administration has implemented a three-tier Task Force Committee system at the district, sub-divisional, and village levels to strengthen preventive measures ahead of the opium cultivation season. Local police also provided information on the legal provisions and punishments under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.

In Kanchipuram District, the National Service Scheme (NSS) of Meenakshi College of Pharmacy conducted an educational session at Government High School, Santhavellore. The program focused on the physical, mental, and social impacts of drug abuse. Students participated in educational skits designed to illustrate the importance of prevention and resisting peer pressure to promote healthy lifestyle choices.