Port Blair, Feb 16: The Department of Home Science, JNRM in association with the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India is organising a two days Capacity Building Workshop on Drug Abuse Prevention for Anganwadi Workers from Feb.16 to 17, 2023.

During the inauguration, the chief guest, Ms. Iti Agarwal, Director (Social Welfare), A&N Administration stated that drug and substance abuse prevention is inevitable for the betterment of society. She described how drugs and its addiction can stop the vibrant growth of countries and its economic development. There is a need to strengthen the supply reduction strategy through law enforcement agencies and the role of Anganwadi Workers are noteworthy for this noble cause, she added. The demand reduction and supply reduction can jointly be achieved through creating awareness among community and young minds. She opined that value education is important in the long run, through which we can bring about change in the society.

Dr. H. K. Sharma, Principal, JNRM, informed the gathering about the scenario of drug abuse in various countries. Due to drugs and alcohol the crime rates are escalating, he said adding that the productive age group like college students are the asset for the county.

Dr. K. Venkatesan, HOD, Home Science and Convener of this programme informed that a country like India which has rich demographic dividend should tap the potential of youngsters and hone their skills for the betterment of society. During the technical session, resource persons addressed the participants.