With the aim of creating public awareness about the growing social impact of drug addiction in Tamil Nadu, protecting students and young people from substance abuse, and guiding those affected by addiction towards treatment, recovery and rehabilitation, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind – Tamil Nadu is organising a statewide public awareness campaign titled “Drug-Free Tamil Nadu” from August 15 to 30.
The campaign is being undertaken with the understanding that drug addiction is not merely an individual problem. It affects families, education, economic well-being, social security and, most importantly, the future of an entire generation.
According to NCRB data, 1,508 cases were registered under the NDPS Act in Tamil Nadu between 2022 and 2024. During the same period, more than 72.6 tonnes of cannabis-related narcotic substances were seized.
Further, according to information from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the number of beneficiaries receiving services through government-supported drug rehabilitation centres in Tamil Nadu increased from 3,668 in 2022–23 to 44,271 in 2024–25.
These figures serve as a warning about the seriousness and growing scale of the issue.
As part of the “Drug-Free Tamil Nadu” campaign, various awareness activities will be organised across the state, including:
– Awareness programmes for students and youth
– Public awareness meetings
– Street-corner campaigns
– Public gatherings
– Awareness sessions by doctors and mental health professionals
– Discussions with social and religious organisations
– Digital awareness initiatives
– Anti-drug pledge programmes
The campaign will also emphasise that people struggling with addiction should not be viewed merely as offenders. They need access to counselling, treatment, recovery support and rehabilitation, and appropriate guidance will be provided to help them access such services.
As part of the campaign to demonstrate public support for a drug-free Tamil Nadu, a statewide signature campaign will be conducted with a target of collecting 5 lakh signatures through a QR-code-enabled initiative.
With the objective of channelising the energy of young people towards healthy and constructive activities, sports programmes and an anti-drug pledge event will be organised.
Special Initiatives in Chennai
As part of the statewide campaign, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind – Chennai Metro will organise various awareness initiatives in Chennai focusing on students, youth, families and the general public.
Three major events were held in Chennai: the launch of the book “Pothai Azhivin Paathai” (The Path to Destruction through Addiction), the screening/release of a short film, and the launch of an anti-drug awareness campaign.
The programme was graced by the presence of Kalaimamani S. Radhakrishnan, journalist Rama Meyyappan, and Dr. Mohideen.
