In a significant step towards creating a drug-free India, BREADS’ DREAM initiative began its collaboration with the Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan in Thrissur district on 15 March 2025. The Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is a nationwide campaign to eradicate drug addiction and promote a healthy and drug-free society. With the active participation of the community, law enforcement, and educational institutions, the initiative is expected to make a significant impact in the fight against substance abuse in the district and beyond.
The launch event was inaugurated by Dr. R Bindu, Minister of Higher Education and Social Justice, and attended by approximately 400 NSS volunteers from colleges across Thrissur district, who pledged their commitment to spreading the message of a drug-free community. Also addressing the gathering, were Mr. Pradeep KR, District Social Justice Officer, and Mr. Satheesh PK, Assistant Excise Commissioner, Thrissur, highlighting the role of local authorities in combating the drug menace. A special performance of Ottam Thullal (traditional art form) by Mr. Jayaraj V, Assistant Excise Inspector, Ernakulam, educated the students and the public about the harmful effects of substance abuse in an engaging and culturally relevant manner.
Since 2021, BREADS’ Drug Rehabilitation Education & Mentoring (DREAM) programme in Thrissur, has made commendable efforts to promote awareness and counselling support for students, reaching out to 101,826 school students and 19,482 college students so far. The dedicated counselling team has provided counselling and mentoring services to 2,725 students. In its efforts to reach a wider audience, DREAM Thrissur organised district-wide awareness campaigns, and trained 732 teachers and 24,744 parents on issues related to addiction in young people. The collaboration between Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan and DREAM will greatly amplify the ongoing efforts towards a drug-free Thrissur.
