Sri Vijaya Puram, June 27: In commemoration of the “International Day Against Drug Abuse”, the Andaman and Nicobar Police carried out a week-long series of impactful initiatives aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing public support against the menace of drugs. The campaign, which culminated on June 26, 2025, underscored the Department’s unwavering commitment to promoting a drug-free society, especially among youth.
As part of the observance, awareness programs were organized across various educational institutions and government offices in Sri Vijaya Puram. These initiatives targeted young minds, reinforcing the vital message of prevention and collective responsibility in combating drug abuse.
In observance of the International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking, a week-long awareness campaign was scheduled by the Directorate of Education which was inaugurated by Smt. Sindhu Pillai A, IGP (L&O), A&N Islands, at the State Library, Sri Vijaya Puram on 23/06/2025 followed by an awareness session aimed to raise awareness among school students about narcotics and their harmful effects. Officials from the Education Department, representatives from NGOs, and Padma Shri awardee Sh. Naresh Chandra Lal also actively participated in the programme, engaging with students on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of collective vigilance.
Another major highlight of the week was a spirited motorcycle rally organized by the Andaman & Nicobar Police, which saw active participation from police personnel across various units and enthusiastic youth volunteers. The rally was flagged off by Shri Jitendra Kumar Meena, IPS, Senior Superintendent of Police (CID), and served as a dynamic symbol of unity and public engagement.
In observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking, an Awareness Programme was conducted on 23/06/2025 at Seva Niketan, Dairy Farm. The event was organised by the Anti-Narcotics Police Station in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and the Directorate of Health Services (DHS). The programme held in the presence of
the In-charge of Seva Niketan, aimed to educate the residents about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the significance of collective vigilance. Approximately 70 inmates (boys and girls) attended the programme.
In parallel, the Anti-Narcotics Police Station, in collaboration with the Police Entertainment Team, conducted engaging street performances and awareness skits at public spaces including Marina Park. These performances aimed to educate the public on the grave consequences of drug addiction and emphasized the importance of community vigilance.
On the concluding day, June 26, 2025, the Education Department, in coordination with ISMAT NGO, organized a Walk-A-Thon’ starting from Flag Point. The event was flagged off by Sh. Jitendra Kumar Meena, IPS, SSP (CID), A&N Islands. Teachers and students actively participated to spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of collective vigilance.
On the concluding day, June 26, 2025, a solemn pledge ceremony was held across A&NI, where senior officers administered anti-drug pledge to all officers and staff of their Units, reaffirming their dedication to eradicating drug abuse from the islands.
Further reinforcing the commitment to drug control, a Drug Disposal Programme was conducted in adherence to the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Mohanlal vs. Union of India and the NDPS (Seizure, Storage, Sampling, and Disposal) Rules, 2022. A total of 40.76 kg of Methamphetamine was destroyed at the incinerator facility of INHS Dhanwantri, Minnie Bay. The disposal operation was carried out by the CID Unit under the supervision of the Drug Disposal Committee chaired by Dr. A. Kaon, IPS, DIGP (PRO), with Jitendra Kumar Meena, IPS, SSP (CID) and Shri. Vikas, IPS, SP (Headquarters) as Committee Members.
The successful observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking reaffirmed the collective resolve of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands community. The synergy between law enforcement, students, educators, and government officials demonstrated a powerful example of unified action against drug-related challenges.
On this occasion, the Director General of Police, Andaman & Nicobar Islands Sh. Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, emphasized that collective responsibility in combating drug abuse. He stated, “the fight against drug abuse demands unity, awareness, and action. Through our week-long campaign, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a drugfree society. I commend the eff arts of our officers, students, and community partners. Together, let us continue building a safer, healthier future for all.”