One year gone; and it is time to take stock of anti

Anti-Drug Clubs in Tamil Nadu Educational Institutions Celebrate One Year Milestone

The Tamil Nadu government has successfully implemented a mandate that requires educational institutions to form 'anti-drug clubs' and 'volunteer teams' to combat drug abuse and promote a drug-free lifestyle.

Initiatives Across Chennai Educational Institutions

Over the past year, schools and colleges in Chennai have come up with innovative campaign ideas to tackle the issue of drug abuse.

• Each of the 64 arts and science and B.Ed colleges in Chennai under the Directorate of Collegiate Education has formed a club and taken proactive measures to spread awareness.
• Some institutions have established multiple clubs, depending on the strength of the college.
• Regular follow-ups and meetings have ensured the clubs remain active and engaged in various activities.

"We get reports from colleges every month and we have a meeting in the Collectorate to discuss the activities under Drug Free Tamil Nadu," says K. Sudarkodi, regional joint director, Directorate of Collegiate Education.

Competition and Awareness Programs

Certain institutions have organized competitions, essay writing programs, and marathons to raise awareness about the issue of drug abuse.

• Government initiatives have encouraged colleges to participate in essay writing competitions and marathons.
• Student volunteers have been asked to conduct surveys in their neighborhoods to understand the prevalence of narcotics use.

Fighting the War Against Drugs

Chennai is leading the fight against drugs, working in partnership with law enforcement departments such as the Greater Chennai City Police and the Excise Department.

Experts say involving the youth in this fight is crucial, making them allies in the war against drugs.

Anti-Trafficking Clubs: Empowering Youth

P.M. Nair, retired Director General of Police, NDRF, emphasizes the importance of anti-human trafficking clubs in schools and colleges.

• Nair suggests that the State Government conduct a qualitative and quantitative study to understand the impact of such clubs in fighting narcotics.
• He also recommends bringing anti-human trafficking clubs into the fold of the existing anti-drug clubs.

Nair notes that human trafficking is a serious issue affecting youth, and empowering them on both drug abuse and human trafficking is crucial.

Community-Based Approach

The Mizoram model of involving the community in fighting drugs is worth emulating, Nair suggests.

He recommends involving Panchayats to spread awareness at the grassroots level.