Anti-drug drive: Kerala to launch 'De-Addicted Anonymous' groups

Kollam: The local bodies will now also ensure whether the children are attending schools regularly. The government has instructed the local bodies to monitor and keep a register of the students enrolled in schools within their jurisdiction to understand the attendance statistics and intervene, if necessary. The instructions were given as part of the state's anti-drug action plan.

Plans have been formulated to completely prevent drug trafficking on school premises and prevent children from falling into the trap of addiction. Panchayath or municipal-level public awareness committees should be convened and lead anti-drug activities. Awareness programs should also be organised at the local body level with the cooperation of people's representatives.

The government has also issued instructions to identify and act against shops selling drugs, cigarettes, or other substances near schools and colleges, ensuring such items are not available in the vicinity.

Community vigilant groups should be formed under the leadership of all local government institutions by October 31. Under their leadership, a monitoring and reporting system should be carried out. It has also been suggested that the 'De-Addicted Anonymous' group should be formed by December 31, following the model of the 'Alcoholics Anonymous' group.

Training should be organised for residents' association members to implement drug-free activities. Active participation of Kudumbashree, Thozhilurappu Mission (MGNREGS), and Kerala Institute of Local Administration(KILA) should be ensured.

The government, in collaboration with various departments, institutions, agencies and voluntary organisations, has launched a wide range of programs to create awareness against the use of drugs. The state-level inauguration of the anti-drug campaign will be held on June 26.