Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jun 26: The Mangaluru city police and Dakshina Kannada district police, in association with NITTE Institute of Professional Education, observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 at Town Hall on Thursday, June 26.
The event was inaugurated by Prof Dr M S Moodithaya, vice chancellor of NITTE Deemed-to-be University.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Moodithaya said, “This programme is significant, especially with students present here who will act as brand ambassadors to spread the message: Say no to drugs and stay away from harmful addictions. You must plan, prepare, and utilize your full potential. Dream big and work hard to achieve those dreams. Success should be a matter of choice, not chance.”
During the event, dignitaries also released an advisory booklet for educational institutions.
Superintendent of police Dr Arun K emphasized the importance of awareness, stating, “The message is clear and simple. Every year, many people fall into the trap of drug addiction. Through events like this, we aim to raise awareness, especially among students and children, who represent the future of our country. Drugs impair our thinking ability—something that differentiates us from animals. Drug abuse weakens the rational character of a human and turns them into victims. Rehabilitation is crucial, and when behavioural changes are observed in students, it must be reported to the police through educational institutions.” He urged all educational institutions to collaborate with the police department to combat drug abuse effectively.
Police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy addressed the students, saying, “As a student, you must assess where you stand. The oath you took today is a promise not just to avoid drugs yourself but also to prevent your friends from falling into it. Always remember: your friend is your responsibility.”
Deputy commissioner H V Darshan spoke about the importance of discipline, stating, “We must give up temporary pleasures. Discipline means pledging to avoid drugs not just once, but consistently every day. We must break the supply chain of drugs before it reaches our students.”
Actor Roopesh Shetty added a motivational note: “Yes, we need intoxication, but not through drugs. Let’s be intoxicated by our passion to achieve, make our parents proud, and help others. If you are falling into addiction, it is likely not your decision but peer influence. It is important to recognize this and step out.”
Resource person Agneita Aiman also addressed the gathering.
The NSS students from NITTE Institute of Professional Education and the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, performed a powerful street play on drug abuse.
DCP law and order Siddarth Goyal, DCP crime and traffic Ravishankar, and other dignitaries were also present.
ACP traffic Nazma Farooqi welcomed the gathering, and ACP CCRB Geetha Kulkarni delivered the vote of thanks.