Kerala announces 'Talk Room' initiative for children under anti-drug campaign

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala will launch a 'Talk Room' initiative to give children a safe space to discuss their emotional, mental and social concerns as part of the state's intensified anti-drug campaign, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said on Wednesday.

Chairing a meeting with representatives of various youth organisations, Chennithala said the government was strengthening its anti-narcotics efforts and urged youth groups to join the campaign against drug abuse.

The proposed 'Talk Room' initiative aims to encourage children to openly share their concerns and seek support in a safe and supportive environment.

The meeting also decided to expand 'Operation Toofan', the state's anti-drug crackdown, and strengthen action against drug mafias with greater public participation.

Representatives of youth organisations extended their support to the government's campaign and suggested several measures to tackle drug abuse. These included strengthening scientific awareness programmes in schools, expanding de-addiction facilities to taluk hospitals and health centres, and tightening surveillance of online drug trafficking.

The organisations also called for greater involvement of parents, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Kudumbashree in anti-drug activities and suggested including anti-narcotics awareness in the school curriculum.

The youth organisations also offered to mobilise volunteers as 'Toofan Warriors' and proposed setting up anti-drug clubs in schools by bringing together existing student clubs.

Chennithala also assured government support for establishing Student Police Cadet (SPC) units in aided and unaided schools, in accordance with legal provisions.

 

PTI