Looking at the rising number of substance abuse cases among children and adolescents, the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights launched a two-day training programme to empower police sub-inspectors and constables to effectively deal with such cases.
The training, which will be held today and tomorrow (April 1 and 2, 2024), will bring together nearly 200 police personnel of various ranks, including those newly inducted, and will provide a comprehensive curriculum that explores the definition and types of substance abuse, the identification of signs and symptoms, and the enforcement of legal statutes such as the COTPA 2003, NDPS Act 1985, JJ Act 2015, and PECA 2019.
The training is to enhance the capabilities of our police force in tackling the challenges of substance abuse, thereby ensuring the safety and welfare of our children. It is crucial for the community to come together in protecting our future generations from the dangers of substance abusePeter F Borges, Goa SCPCR Chairperson
Goa SCPCR Chairperson Peter F Borges highlighted the significant role of law enforcement in combating substance abuse among juveniles.
"The training is to enhance the capabilities of our police force in tackling the challenges of substance abuse, thereby ensuring the safety and welfare of our children. It is crucial for the community to come together in protecting our future generations from the dangers of substance abuse," Borges emphasised.
During the programme, Peter Borges also called for stringent enforcement of the Protection of Children from Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) 2019 amidst growing concerns over the prevalence of vaping within the student community.
This call to action underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risks associated with electronic cigarettes, especially among students.
Jaspal Singh, IPS, Director General of Police, underscored the importance of the training: "This programme is a mission to protect our future generations from the menace of substance abuse. The Goa police are fully committed to this cause, and armed with the proper knowledge and skills, we are ready to make significant strides in protecting our youth."
Dr Ida de Noronha de Ataide commended the collaborative effort to address substance abuse challenges: "At the camps conducted by the Goa Dental College and Hospital, there has been a noticeable prevalence of tobacco misuse and its harmful impact on the youth in the state. In response, we have collaborated with the Goa SCPCR to introduce a pocket manual today for enforcing anti-substance abuse laws. This manual is designed to empower our law enforcement agencies to tackle the issues of tobacco and vaping effectively. Our institution remains steadfast in supporting the fight against tobacco use."
Today's programme addressed a broad range of topics, including the societal and individual impacts of substance abuse, enforcement strategies for tobacco control, and the legal provisions under various acts such as the COTPA 2003, PECA 2019, and the NDPS Act.
Experts in the field shared their insights, focusing on practical approaches for combating substance abuse and supporting affected children.
A session titled 'Protecting Juveniles' by Peter F Borges touched upon the legal frameworks and support systems available for juveniles involved in substance abuse, emphasising the critical role of law enforcement in their rehabilitation and care.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in the collective effort to combat substance abuse among the youth in Goa, reaffirming the commitment of the Goa SCPCR, Goa Police, and Goa Dental College and Hospital toward ensuring a healthier, safer environment for children and adolescents.