Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 31: As part of the ongoing efforts under National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), an awareness programme on drug abuse prevention and demand reduction was organised at Govind Nagar, Shyamnagar Gram Panchayats, Swaraj Dweep, and Neil Kendra Gram Panchayats, Shaheed Dweep in collaboration with Andaman & Nicobar Police and Directorate of RD, PRI & ULBs with active participation from the Panchayat representatives, staff, Anganwadi Workers and the local community. The programme began with an awareness rally organised by Govind Nagar Gram Panchayat, in which Panchayat members, staff and members of the general public participated enthusiastically. The rally carried the message of a drug-free society and a healthier, stronger community, encouraging people to collectively stand against substance abuse. Following the rally, an interactive awareness session was conducted to sensitise the community about the harmful consequences of drug abuse and the importance of prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation. The session witnessed participation from officials and professionals from various sectors, reflecting a coordinated and community-centric approach towards addressing substance abuse.
The Resource Person from Directorate of Social Welfare under NAPDDR highlighted the objectives of drug demand reduction initiatives, the importance of awareness and early intervention, and the available avenues for treatment, counselling and rehabilitation. The Panchayat Secretary and Pradhan, Govind Nagar Gram Panchayat, emphasised the important role of Panchayati Raj Institutions and local communities in identifying concerns, supporting affected individuals and creating a positive and drug-free environment. Resource Person from Swaraj Dweep and Shaeed Dweep Police Station apprised the gathering about the legal consequences of involvement in drug-related activities and urged the community, particularly young people, to stay away from drugs and make responsible choices.
The speakers collectively emphasised that combating drug abuse is not the responsibility of any single department or agency. It requires the active participation of families, Panchayats, educational institutions, health services, law-enforcement agencies and the community as a whole. The programme concluded with the NMBA (Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan) Pledge, wherein all participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to contribute towards building a drug-free society. The participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of awareness in their families and communities and to take positive steps towards creating a healthy, responsible and empowered society that contributes meaningfully to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
The programme was made successful through the enthusiastic cooperation of Anganwadi Workers, whose active involvement in community mobilisation and awareness efforts played an important role in strengthening the outreach of programme. The initiative once again reinforced the message that a drug-free India begins with an aware community, responsible citizens and collective action. Through sustained awareness, compassion, rehabilitation and community participation, every individual can contribute towards building a healthier generation and a stronger nation.
