Drug peddlers are increasingly targeting students, making educational institutions hotspots for drug activity. Despite efforts to combat this issue, many parents remain unaware of their children’s addiction, leading to delayed intervention.
Anti-Drugs Cells: Need for More Action
To curb drug abuse, Dakshina Kannada district administration has mandated the formation of 530 Anti-Drugs Cells across schools and colleges. These include 34 degree colleges, 16 engineering colleges, 1 law college, 61 pre-university colleges, and 417 high schools. However, many of these cells remain inactive, reducing their effectiveness.
Each Anti-Drugs Cell is led by the principal/headmaster, with support from faculty, student representatives, and security officers. While these units aim to prevent drug abuse, experts stress that active participation is necessary.
Alarming Rise in Female Drug Users
Recent estimates indicate that 40% of student drug users are female. Many parents, upon discovering their child’s addiction, choose to remain silent out of fear for their future, which only worsens the problem.
Timely Intervention is Key
District mental health program officer Dr. Sudarshan emphasizes the need for early intervention. He urges schools, colleges, and parents not to hide addiction cases but instead seek counseling and treatment. Taluk hospitals and community health centers now have trained counselors, but their impact depends on better cooperation from educational institutions and families.
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