The Higher Education Department in Odisha has issued directives to make colleges across the state drug-free campuses. This move aims to curb the growing menace of drug abuse among youth in educational institutions.
Key Initiatives:
- Mental Health Portal: The Narcotics Control Bureau has launched the Mental Health and Normalcy Augmentation System Portal to identify students using drugs.
- National Helpline: A national helpline number '1933' has been designated for citizens to report drug abuse in colleges, with provisions for anonymous complaints via email, mobile, and the 'Umang' app.
- Awareness Programs: Emphasis will be placed on conducting drug-free awareness programs on campus to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse.
Objective:
- Protect Youth Health: The initiative aims to protect the health and well-being of students by creating a safe and secure learning environment.
- Confidential Reporting: The identity of complainants will be kept confidential to encourage reporting of drug-related incidents.