How Odisha is Tackling the Rising Drug Abuse Among Students
State's Initiative for Drug-Free Campuses
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
Bhubaneswar: In a significant effort to address the escalating issue of drug abuse among students, the Higher Education department has mandated all government and private colleges in the state to implement measures aimed at establishing drug-free environments. This directive, issued by Ramesh Chandra Behera, the State Nodal Officer and Deputy Secretary, comes amid rising concerns regarding drug use among the youth in Odisha. The department acknowledges that educational institutions play a vital role in early intervention and awareness, which can lead to healthier futures for students. The circular stated, “Educational institutions are crucial in fostering responsible citizens. The current drug crisis poses a serious social threat, and immediate action is necessary.”
The government has proposed a detailed awareness campaign that includes promoting the MANAS portal and helpline (1933). This platform allows students and the public to report drug-related issues or seek assistance through the Narcotics Control Bureau’s MANAS (Mental Health and Normalcy Augmentation System) portal. Complaints can be submitted via the national helpline (1933), the Umang mobile app, or email, ensuring the confidentiality of the complainants. Colleges are encouraged to disseminate information about this platform through seminars, posters, and digital outreach.
Additionally, student engagement initiatives are to be organized. Institutions are tasked with conducting sensitization programs such as debates, essay contests, art competitions, street performances, and rallies to inform students about the risks associated with substance abuse. Anti-drug activist Muhammad Imran Ali commented on the initiative, commending the government's approach but highlighting the dire reality on the ground. “This is a positive step, but the situation is already critical. Drug traffickers are actively targeting students in and around educational institutions. Substances like Brown Sugar, Cocaine, and LSD have been confiscated recently. Our campuses are not immune to this issue,” Ali remarked. “For drug dealers, students are potential buyers and sometimes even carriers. This transcends health concerns; it’s a criminal and ethical dilemma.”
While raising awareness is essential, Ali emphasized the need for effective implementation of these guidelines, supported by law enforcement. Amrit Pattojoshi, head of the Psychiatry department at HiTech Medical College, warned against the misconception that drugs like cannabis, LSD, or stimulants enhance creativity or focus. Although these substances may provide temporary mood or perception changes, scientific research indicates that their effects are fleeting and often lead to severe long-term repercussions. “Chronic drug use can impair fundamental brain functions such as memory, motivation, and decision-making, particularly in young individuals whose brains are still maturing,” Pattojoshi explained. “Factors like peer pressure, emotional challenges, and online glorification heighten the risk, but with timely intervention and family support, recovery is achievable,” he concluded.