International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on 26 June to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking. The theme for 2023 was “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.” It promotes a more inclusive and supportive approach towards people who use drugs, while also stepping up prevention efforts.

It was an important day for all the 10 district centres of BREADS’ Drug Rehabilitation Education and Mentoring (DREAM) programme, who marked the day with a range of activities and programmes across Kerala.

Kannur: DREAM Kannur organised an awareness session in collaboration with Higher Secondary School, Iritty, and Bharat Scout & Guides on the consequences of drug abuse. Lectures, interactive activities, and group discussions were used to educate students about the harmful effects of drugs and encourage them to make informed decisions. The training successfully improved students’ knowledge and attitudes towards drug abuse.

Alappuzha: DREAM Alappuzha conducted a series of programmes throughout the week to observe the day, including distribution of leaflets and awareness sessions for students in different parishes and schools on the theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.” The highlight was a musical drama held in three schools and a college.

Kozhikode: DREAM Kozhikode, in association with various organisations, organised an awareness rally and public meeting to mark the day. The programme included speeches by dignitaries, a mime performance, and a skit with a message by the students of Auxilium Nava Jyoti School Kunnamangalam. The event aimed to raise awareness about drug abuse and illicit trafficking, involving different community stakeholders.

Ernakulam: DREAM Kochi, in collaboration with the District Social Justice Department and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, celebrated the day by starting with a flash mob by students from Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kalamassery, and Bharat Matha College, Thrikkakara. Events included speeches by dignitaries, a rally, and a seminar to discuss the issue of drug abuse and prevention strategies.

Wayanad: DREAM Wayanad observed the day in collaboration with various organisations, through an awareness campaign at the Sulthan Bathery municipal bus stand, a street play by DREAM volunteers, distribution of awareness materials, and a dove release ceremony to symbolise peace. An open quiz competition was also organised. The event received appreciation from the public.

Thiruvananthapuram: DREAM Trivandrum and Don Bosco Veedu Society, organised “Oppam” (With you) at Government ITI Chakkai to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The programme included a skit, an exhibition, a live quiz competition, and an anti-drug oath-taking session.

Thrissur: DREAM Thrissur organised an awareness campaign on the day including a lively flash mob performance by students from Christ College Irinjalakuda, and a theme dance by the NSS volunteers. The objective was to educate the community about the consequences of drug addiction and promote a drug-free society.

Kottayam: DREAM Kottayam observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the participation of over 900 students. The event featured impactful speeches by professionals, anti-narcotic pledges, mimes and poem recitations by students, and an interactive session. College-level programmes, including a street play and a talk, were also conducted to raise awareness about drug abuse.

Kasaragod: DREAM Kasaragod marked the day at GHS Pullur Eriya with sessions by social workers and a counsellor on the theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.” A quiz competition was also held to create awareness about drug issues. The event witnessed a significant participation and prizes were awarded to the winners.