Step up anti-drug awareness among students: Dakshina Kannada DC Darshan

Mangaluru: Deputy commissioner Darshan HV Tuesday directed officials to intensify awareness programmes on the dangers and consequences of drug abuse among children, citing the increasing vulnerability of the younger generation to addiction.

Chairing the district-level Narco Coordination Centre Committee meeting at Kudmul Ranga Rao Town Hall, the DC said school and college students were more likely to be attracted to narcotic substances and must therefore be prioritised for sustained awareness initiatives, along with treatment.

Drug addiction could be prevented through education, awareness, a loving family environment, strict laws and by promoting a healthy lifestyle among youth, he said.

Warning that early addiction among minors could adversely affect health and lead to depression, the DC said parents and teachers must closely monitor children’s behaviour and activities. He cautioned that neglect would impact family well-being and hinder children’s social and academic progress, stressing that parents, schools, colleges and hostel authorities must remain vigilant.

City police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH said drug addiction was a serious menace that destroyed an individual’s physical, mental and social life, and that children must be educated about the long-term effects of narcotic substances on the brain.

He suggested that colleges conduct inspections and counselling sessions every month to spread awareness among students, adding that with support from treatment centres and experts, individuals could overcome addiction.

SP Arun K, DCP (law and order) Mithun HN, additional SP Anil Kumar Bhoomareddy and officials from various departments were present