KOCHI: The State has witnessed the sharpest increase in de-addiction centres this year, compared to the previous years. This shows the influence of alcohol and drugs on society, said Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala.
“With the State set to become alcohol-free in the next ten years, it is also important to protect the youth from all kinds of substance abuse,” Chennithala said.
He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Clean Campus, Safe Campus’ project for the Central Zone, here on Monday.
“A total of 19,629 raids were conducted by the police so far, under the project. 3,567 cases have been registered, and 3,442 arrests were made. The aim of the drive is a ‘clean and safe Kerala,” he said.
He said the campaign would be included in competitions of the youth festivals in the coming years, and that the government was planning two more grand events in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam to spread awareness among students.
Actor Mammootty was declared the brand ambassador of the Clean Campus, Safe Campus drive. Addressing students on the occasion, Mammootty said, “I am now the brand ambassador of the campaign. I transfer that position to each one of you so that you take it up for a mission to spread the word to everyone you know”.
He also administered the Clean Campus, Safe Campus oath to the students who were present at the venue. “It is important that you stay away from the anti-social elements around you. You must pledge to ‘get addicted to life’” he said.
The drive, which was launched on June 13 in Thiruvananthapuram, is a joint initiative of the Home, Health and Education departments.
It aims at arresting the increase in substance abuse among the youth.