Mysore/Mysuru: Stressing on the need for organised and concerted efforts for tackling the drug menace which is haunting the society these days, DIGP (Southern Range) Dr. M.B. Boralingaiah said the co-operation of educational institutions and other organisations is vital for ending this menace.

He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’ programme organised at Suyog Hospital premises in Ramakrishnanagar on Monday.

Pointing out that India has the biggest youth population in the world, Dr. Boralingaiah said that the country’s growth depends largely on the health and development of youths. Expressing concern over rising cases of drug abuse, he said that the Police and other concerned departments are taking necessary steps to tackle the menace. However, the sale of drugs is going on and public co-operation is vital in preventing the sale and consumption of drugs.

Highlighting the role of educational institutions in ending the menace, the DIGP suggested Schools and Colleges to hold awareness programmes on the ill-effects of drug abuse.

DCP (Law and Order) M. Muthuraj said that it is worrisome  to note that the educated are falling prey to drug menace more than the uneducated. More discerning is that Medical and Engineering students are becoming victims of drug abuse, which does not augur well  for the society, he said adding that it is regretful to note that professional course students are falling into the trap of drug abuse and trafficking. He cited a recent instance where a few medical students were caught for clandestinely growing ganja in their rented accommodation in Shivamogga.

MMC&RI Psychiatry Department faculty Dr. B.N. Raveesh said that tackling drug trafficking, abuse and menace is a social responsibility. Expressing concerns that even female students are becoming victims of drug abuse, he stressed on the need for ensuring that drug supplies are completely stopped.

Suyog Hospital Chairman Dr. S.P. Yoganna, Medical Director Dr. R. Rajendra Prasad, Executive officer Dr. M.V. Manjunath, Yoga teacher Ananthu, Nagamani and others were present.