Mangaluru: To mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, a powerful awareness program was organized at Town Hall on June 26 by the Mangaluru City Police, Dakshina Kannada District Police, and Nitte Institute of Professional Education.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. M.S. Moodithaya, Vice-Chancellor of Nitte (Deemed-to-be University), who urged students to act as ambassadors of change. “Say no to drugs, dream big, and pursue success with purpose—not chance,” he said, emphasizing that youth have a vital role in shaping a drug-free future.
Beena Saldanha, a recovered addict and founder of Born Again Rehabilitation Centre, delivered a moving speech about her journey to sobriety. Now eight months pregnant, she shared her past struggles and stressed the need for resilience and support systems in recovery. “Drugs rob you of your feelings. Rebuilding life takes courage, but it’s possible,” she added.
Prominent attendees included actor Roopesh Shetty, Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy, Deputy Commissioner H.V. Darshan, and SP Dr. K. Arun.
SP Arun highlighted the vulnerability of young students to narcotics, urging families and schools to fight the stigma of addiction. He encouraged the use of the anonymous reporting system launched by Mangaluru Police to report drug offenses safely.
Deputy Commissioner Darshan reaffirmed the government’s dedication to disrupting the drug supply chain and supporting community-driven efforts.
The program featured thought-provoking street plays by students from Roshni Nilaya and Nitte, driving home the urgency of societal involvement in tackling substance abuse.