Port Blair, Sept. 28: On 28/09/2023 an awareness programme was conducted by Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS Superintendent of Police North & Middle Andaman District Police at Pokkadera Community Hall regarding “Suicide prevention” in association with Shri Suresh Chandra Mazumder, DEO Mayabunder and Smti Marya Sheela, Director, JSS South Andaman, Prayas JAC. During the programme students from VIII to XII classes along with teachers of GMSSS, Mayabunder participated. They were briefed about ‘Suicide Prevention’ containing information on warning signs, risk and protective factors, myths and misconceptions surrounding suicide and how to offer peer support for individuals dealing with mental health challenges and self-harm concerns.
During the programme it was further briefed about ill effects of drugs, Cyber Crime, Carrier guidance etc. and “Nukkad Natak” on the topics of POCSO & drug abuse were performed by the Police personnel. The main objective of the awareness programme is to train and create awareness among the students of class VIII to XII inculcating within them respect for the self-love, discipline, civic sense and empathy for vulnerable sections of the society and the persistence to eradicate the social evils/anti-social elements and to inculcate development of good health, physical and mental self-control and discipline in youth, thereby enhancing their capacity for hard work and personal achievements and to enable youth to work with Suicide prevention / Enforcement Agencies.
Similar programmes were organized at Mahatma Gandhi Govt. College, Mayabunder, Govt. Sr. Sec. School Pahalgaon, St. Mary English Medium School, Mayabunder, Govt. Model Sr. Sec. School, Mayabunder, Govt. Sr. Sec. School Swarajgram, Govt. Sr. Sec. School Subhasgram & Model Senior School Sitanagar in Diglipur and Govt. Sr. Sec. School Kalighat and Govt. Sr. Sec. School Kishorinagar all played host to these programs. Smti Marya Sheela, Director, JSS South Andaman, Prayas JAC highlighted her concern on the topic. These initiatives were aimed at reaching a wider audience and instilling valuable life lessons among students of various backgrounds.
The program centered on a holistic approach to empower the youth. It sought to equip students with the knowledge and tools necessary for nurturing self-esteem and self-worth. In a world often marred by uncertainties and pressures, the students were provided with essential guidance on crafting successful careers. Moreover, they were made aware of the multifaceted factors that can lead to stress and anxiety, factors that may eventually contribute to suicidal tendencies. One of the highlights of the program was a compelling "Nukkad Natak" performed by the Police Entertainment Team. This thought-provoking street play revolved around the theme of drug abuse. It aimed not only to raise awareness but also to educate students about recognizing and preventing such grave issues.
The week-long program culminated in a grand event on 28/09/2023 at the Community Hall Danapur. This final gathering was a testament to the program's resounding success. Approximately 1900-2000 participants, including students from different schools and colleges, attended this event at various locations. Their presence underscored the positive impact the program had on the community and its youth.
The North & Andaman District Police are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. We actively engage in community outreach programs and collaborate with organizations like PRAYAS (NGO) to address critical social issues.