Detailed Report on NSS Lahari Virudha Shilpa Shala (Anti-Drug Awareness Workshop)
The National Service Scheme (NSS) organised a Lahari Virudha Shilpa Shala (Anti-Drug Awareness Workshop) on 06 November 2026 at the SUM College Auditorium with the objective of creating awareness among students about the increasing problem of drug abuse and its harmful consequences. The programme aimed to educate students about the dangers of substance use, encourage healthy lifestyles, and motivate them to become active participants in building a drug-free society.
The session was inaugurated by Mr. Abhilash Puthencheri, a worldwide traveller who travels by bicycle. He delivered an inspiring and informative talk on the anti-drug vision, focusing on the growing challenges of drug usage among youngsters and its serious impact on individuals, families, and society. Drawing attention to the importance of a healthy and purposeful life, he shared valuable ideas on how young people can resist the temptation of drugs and develop positive attitudes towards life.
During his address, he explained that drug abuse is not merely an individual problem but a serious social issue that affects the physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being of people. He highlighted the harmful effects of substance abuse, including damage to vital organs, mental health problems, impaired decision-making, reduced academic performance, financial difficulties, family conflicts, and social isolation. He also pointed out that drug addiction can gradually destroy an individual’s dreams, ambitions, relationships, and future opportunities.
He emphasised that curiosity, peer pressure, stress, loneliness, emotional difficulties, and the desire to experiment are some of the common reasons that may lead youngsters towards drug use. He encouraged students to develop the courage to say “NO” to drugs, avoid negative peer influence, and make responsible decisions. He reminded them that true freedom lies in controlling one’s choices rather than becoming dependent on harmful substances.
The speaker also shared several important ideas and preventive measures to combat drug abuse:
- Say No to Drugs: Every student should develop a strong commitment to staying away from drugs and other addictive substances, regardless of peer pressure or social influence.
- Choose Positive Friendships: Students should maintain healthy friendships and avoid company that encourages harmful habits or substance abuse.
- Promote Awareness: Awareness programmes, seminars, workshops, rallies, poster campaigns, and street plays can help educate students and the public about the dangers of drug addiction.
- Develop Healthy Habits: Participation in sports, cycling, yoga, reading, arts, cultural activities, and other hobbies can help young people lead productive and meaningful lives.
- Manage Stress Positively: Students should learn healthy ways to manage academic pressure, emotional difficulties, and personal problems through communication, exercise, relaxation, and guidance from trusted people.
- Support Rather Than Stigmatise: People struggling with addiction should not be isolated or humiliated. They need understanding, encouragement, counselling, and appropriate professional treatment to recover and rebuild their lives.
- Create Drug-Free Campuses: Educational institutions should actively promote anti-drug activities and encourage students to maintain a safe, healthy, and supportive learning environment.
- Be Responsible Citizens: Young people should take responsibility for spreading awareness among their friends, families, and communities and report drug-related concerns to appropriate authorities.
He further stressed that preventing drug abuse requires the collective responsibility of students, parents, teachers, educational institutions, and society. He urged NSS volunteers to become ambassadors of the anti-drug movement and spread the message of a healthy and drug-free lifestyle.
Dr. Rosa M.C. welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of conducting awareness programmes to protect the younger generation from the dangers of substance abuse. Mr. Suneesh K., NSS Coordinator, presided over the function and emphasised the role of NSS volunteers in creating social awareness and promoting responsible citizenship.
The workshop was highly informative and thought-provoking. It helped students understand that drug addiction can affect anyone and that prevention, awareness, timely intervention, and community support are essential in addressing this social challenge. The session inspired the participants to make healthy life choices and actively contribute to the mission of creating a drug-free campus and society.
The programme concluded with a strong message: “Life is precious, dreams are valuable, and the future is worth protecting. Say NO to Drugs and YES to Life.”
Through this initiative, the NSS reaffirmed its commitment to building an informed, responsible, healthy, and drug-free younger generation