Nehru Youth Kendra, Panjim, and Drug-Free India Campaign recently observed 'International Day Against Drug Abuse' at the Youth Hostel, Peddem, Mapusa. Deputy Director of Nehru Youth Kendra, Kalidas Ghatwal; Sub-Inspector of Police, Anti-Drug Cell, Shankar Komarpant; Member Secretary, Drug-Free India Campaign, Supriya Manjrekar; Vijayshree Gaonkar of the Correspondence Office, and National Youth Award winner Gunaji Mandrekar were present on occasion.
While addressing the gathering, Ghatwal said, "Addicts have driven themselves into the dark at the cost of their own happiness and peace, and that of their families, as well. Alcohol has destroyed many families, and society and the country suffers a lot due to drug abuse. Addiction also results in crime, which is a threat to the law and order situation in the country. Addicts become lazy and squander money. And, their morals are destroyed."
Komarpant said, "The main objective of the day is to keep people away from drugs and curb drug trafficking. Events, organized on this occasion, are meant to make you aware of the ill effects of drug addiction." While highlighting the detrimental effects of drugs on mental and physical health, he also expressed the need to take drastic steps for social empowerment and a drug-free society.
Manjrekar shared details about the Drug-Free India Campaign of the Directorate of Social Welfare.