Students take oath to spread awareness on drug abuse

Constituents from local schools in the town and surrounding villages, including newly admitted students, pledged to raise awareness about the causes and consequences of drug abuse. The vow was taken during the concluding session of a function at MGMN Senior Secondary School on Monday, aimed at spreading the message of the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign to every corner of the region.

The inaugural function was presided over by Ahmedgarh DSP Rajan Sharma, under the supervision of Malerkotla SSP Gagan Ajit Singh. In his keynote address, DSP Sharma emphasised the importance of educating new students during the academic session, stating creating awareness among them was even more critical than focusing solely on de-addiction and rehabilitation of those already affected by drug abuse.

“It is crucial to understand that teenagers, particularly students starting at new educational institutions, are at a vulnerable stage and are easily targeted by antisocial elements, including drug peddlers,” Sharma said. He called for greater caution in addressing the negative effects of drug abuse and urged the organisation of educational events to prevent the spread of addiction in the future. He also appealed to teachers and residents to foster an open and supportive environment to counsel students on important issues like drug abuse.

District Convener of the campaign, DSP (special) Ranjit Singh Bains, said police personnel, led by SSP Gagan Ajit Singh, had already begun organising various events to sensitise students joining schools and colleges during the new academic session. These initiatives aim to educate the youth and help prevent drug addiction from taking root in the community.