Mysore/Mysuru: Viveka Foundation and Viveka Hospitals, Mysuru, had organised  a walkathon on June 26 on the occasion of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking from Palace North Gate.

The event was attended by Dr. Manju Prasad (DLO), District Mental Health Programme Officer, Dr. Sudha Naik (District Mental Health Psychiatrist), Arunkumar (Director, Viveka Foundation), Treating team members of Viveka Hospitals, Principal and Staff of JSS Nursing College and students from Holdsworth Memorial College of Nursing  (Mission Hospital) and members of the public. Students from Mission Hospital rendered the invocation. Chitralekha (Psychologist) welcomed.

Chief guest Dr. Manju Prasad spoke about the ill-effects of drug abuse and encouraged students to take help of mental health professionals whenever any red flags were noticed. He spoke about how life can hamper our emotional, social and  spiritual growth.

Dr. Sudha Naik (District Mental Health Psychiatrist) spoke about various issues to address ways to combat drug abuse, also about illicit trafficking and the NDPS amendment presently existing and how they can be punished for being a part of this act.

Head of the Department of JSS Nursing College Saraswathy provided insights on how to prevent drug abuse.

The 17-member street students drama troupe from Mission Hospital, under the guidance of Prathibha, presented a lively street play creating awareness among the public.

Soniya compered the programme. Psychiatrist at Viveka Foundation Dr. Vinaykumar proposed a vote of thanks.