- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Tue, 20 May 2025 04:35 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Anti-Drug Campaign: In an unprecedented move to combat rising drug abuse among school-aged children, Delhi Police has partnered with the Directorate of Education to leverage parent-teacher meetings (PTMs) as a platform for anti-drug awareness. This initiative marks a significant shift in strategy, focusing on the family unit as the first line of defence against substance use.Teachers across participating schools have already undergone training to spot early warning signs and behavioural changes in students that could indicate drug use. By equipping educators with this knowledge, the campaign aims to ensure timely intervention before issues escalate.
The campaign’s reach extends beyond the classroom. Plans are underway to collaborate with the de-addiction centre at AIIMS, enlisting expert counsellors to create short, informative videos tailored for parents. These videos, to be showcased during PTMs, will highlight psychological and physical signs of drug use in adolescents, making the information accessible and actionable for families.
The approach is designed to spark open conversations between parents and teachers, strengthening the support network around vulnerable students. By targeting both government and private schools, authorities hope to scale the programme citywide, bridging gaps between schools, families, and law enforcement for a safer, healthier future.
Expanding the Anti-Drug Effort: Community and Policy Integration
The anti-drug campaign in Delhi is not limited to schools alone. Under the guidance of the Lieutenant Governor and with support from the Social Welfare Department, the initiative is part of a broader, multi-pronged approach to make Delhi drug-free within three years. The campaign involves inspections and awareness drives in colleges, hostels, public spaces, and even public transport, ensuring that the message of drug prevention reaches every corner of the city. Nodal officers and accountable wardens have been appointed in educational institutions to uphold drug-free environments, while attractive rewards are being offered for informants to encourage community participation.
The Social Welfare Department actively engages with parents and teachers, distributing advisories and promoting vigilance over children’s activities. This comprehensive strategy aims to dismantle drug networks, reduce demand, and foster a culture of awareness and prevention at every level of society.
The Role of Technology and Counselling in Prevention:
A key innovation in the campaign is the use of technology and expert counselling. By partnering with AIIMS, Delhi Police ensures that parents receive scientifically accurate, age-appropriate information through engaging video content. These resources are intended to demystify the signs of substance abuse and empower parents to act swiftly if they notice any red flags. The videos serve as conversation starters during PTMs, helping families and educators collaborate more effectively. This integration of professional counselling and digital tools sets a new standard for preventive education, ensuring that the fight against drug abuse is both informed and inclusive.
As the campaign progresses, authorities plan to regularly review its impact and adapt strategies as needed, with the ultimate goal of creating a resilient, drug-free community for Delhi’s youth.