Mangaluru: Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy against narcotic drugs, the Karnataka government has intensified its statewide campaign to eliminate drug abuse, setting an ambitious target of making the state drug-free by 2028. As part of this effort, the government launched Operation RISE on June 30, combining strict law enforcement with awareness campaigns, rehabilitation initiatives and community participation to curb the spread of narcotics.

The campaign seeks to dismantle illegal drug networks while simultaneously reducing demand through education and preventive measures, particularly among students and young professionals. Officials said the initiative reflects a comprehensive approach that balances enforcement with rehabilitation and public engagement.

Operation RISE launched to strengthen anti-drug efforts

Operation RISE has been introduced as Karnataka’s flagship anti-drug initiative, bringing together various government departments, law enforcement agencies and educational institutions to combat narcotics.

The programme focuses on stringent legal action against drug traffickers, enhanced intelligence gathering, coordinated enforcement operations and increased public awareness. Alongside crackdowns on peddlers, the initiative aims to encourage rehabilitation for those struggling with drug addiction.

Authorities have instructed police units across the state to implement designated activities in every district and taluk within a 20-day period to ensure the campaign reaches the grassroots level.

‘Beda Bro’ campaign targets youth

A key component of the anti-drug mission is the ‘Beda Bro’ campaign, which has been specifically designed for students and young professionals.

The campaign seeks to discourage drug consumption, promote healthy lifestyles and create awareness about the harmful consequences of narcotic abuse. Police, educational institutions, parents, local communities and the health department are jointly conducting awareness programmes to educate young people about the risks associated with drugs.

Officials believe reducing demand among the younger population is critical to breaking the supply chain and preventing the growth of drug-related crime.

Mangaluru City records significant NDPS enforcement

According to statistics released by the Mangaluru City Police Commissionerate, 717 NDPS cases were registered during 2025, involving 231 drug peddlers and 723 consumers.

As of July 15, 2026, police had already registered 426 NDPS cases, involving 142 peddlers and 438 consumers.

At present, 95 accused arrested in NDPS cases remain in judicial custody, including six foreign nationals.

During 2025, city police registered 116 drug peddling cases, leading to the arrest of 231 peddlers, while 601 drug consumption cases involved 723 consumers.

Police seized 324.074 kg of ganja and 6.017 kg of synthetic drugs during the year. Altogether, 953 Indian nationals and one foreign national were arrested, while the total estimated value of the seized narcotics stood at Rs 7,50,26,380.

By July 15, 2026, police had registered 84 peddling cases resulting in the arrest of 142 peddlers, besides 342 consumption cases involving 438 consumers.

During the period, authorities seized 150.329 kg of ganja and 7.072 kg of synthetic drugs. A total of 578 Indian nationals were arrested, while the estimated value of the seized narcotics increased to Rs 8,08,94,230.

Student screening and awareness programmes expanded

As part of preventive measures, police have continued conducting drug screening among college students.

In 2025, 5,340 students underwent drug tests, with 14 testing positive.

As of July 15, 2026, 1,524 students had been screened, of whom eight tested positive.

Authorities said educational institutions continue to play a vital role in identifying vulnerable students and promoting drug-free campuses through counselling, awareness sessions and regular monitoring.

Dakshina Kannada district steps up enforcement

The Dakshina Kannada district police have also intensified anti-drug operations under Operation RISE.

During 2025, the district registered 29 NDPS cases, involving 33 drug peddlers and 20 consumers.

By July 15, 2026, the number had risen to 44 NDPS cases, involving 44 peddlers and 48 consumers.

In 2025, district police registered 16 peddling cases and 13 drug consumption cases, seizing 14.49 kg of ganja, 66.0476 grams of MDMA, and 1.02 grams of methamphetamine. The estimated value of the seized narcotics was Rs 3,61,480, while 53 Indian nationals were arrested.

As of July 15, 2026, district police had registered 15 peddling cases, arrested 44 peddlers, and booked 29 drug consumption cases involving 48 consumers.

During this period, officers seized 106.90 kg of ganja and 656.36 grams of MDMA, with the total estimated value of the confiscated narcotics reaching Rs 1,11,19,780. A total of 92 Indian nationals were arrested.

Educational institutions join anti-drug movement

Authorities have expanded preventive initiatives across educational institutions.

Anti-Drug Committees have been established in 174 educational institutions under the Mangaluru City Police Commissionerate and 101 institutions under the Dakshina Kannada district police.

Educational institutions are obtaining voluntary anti-drug undertakings from students during admission, organising regular awareness programmes and conducting periodic drug screening.

Police have also introduced Mobile Forensic Laboratories for on-the-spot drug testing and deployed specially trained Belgian Malinois dog squads to detect the transportation and storage of narcotic substances.

Officials said these measures are aimed at strengthening surveillance while promoting awareness and early intervention.

Comprehensive approach to a drug-free Karnataka

The Karnataka government said Operation RISE and the ‘Beda Bro’ campaign represent a comprehensive strategy that combines law enforcement, awareness, rehabilitation and community participation.

By targeting both drug supply and demand, the government aims to create a safer society while encouraging young people to reject narcotics and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Officials reiterated that the campaign will continue with sustained enforcement, public education and institutional cooperation until Karnataka achieves its goal of becoming a drug-free state by 2028.

Conclusion

With Operation RISE and the ‘Beda Bro’ campaign gathering momentum, Karnataka has intensified its fight against narcotics through stricter enforcement, awareness drives and rehabilitation initiatives. The government believes that sustained action involving police, educational institutions, parents and the community will be crucial in achieving its vision of a drug-free Karnataka by 2028.