The Greater Chennai Police, in partnership with Easwari Engineering College in Ramapuram, organised a high‑profile awareness programme titled ‘Drug‑Free Tamil Nadu‑2026’. The event aimed to educate the campus youth about the perils of drug addiction and to enlist them as ambassadors for a drug‑free society.

Background and Societal Context

Drug misuse has risen sharply across Tamil Nadu, especially within tertiary‑education institutions. In response, the state launched the ‘Drug‑Free Tamil Nadu’ initiative in 2023, yet effective implementation requires coordinated action among law‑enforcement, academia, and civil society.

Key Highlights of the Programme

Greater Chennai Police Commissioner A. Amalraj addressed the gathering, emphasizing the physical, mental and social fallout of substance abuse. He warned, “Addiction erodes health, hampers education, and jeopardises career prospects, leaving a lasting scar on personal and community life.”

Students publicly took the “I am Against Drugs” pledge, committing to a drug‑free lifestyle throughout their college years. To amplify the message, the police introduced a signature and selfie campaign, encouraging participants to share visual proof of their anti‑drug stance on social media.

Future Outlook

Commissioner Amalraj appealed to the student body to act as peer educators, spreading awareness beyond campus boundaries. He also announced plans for ongoing workshops, counseling sessions, and collaborations with NGOs and health agencies to sustain the momentum.

Overall, the event is not a one‑off outreach but a cornerstone of a broader, long‑term strategy to cultivate a drug‑free Tamil Nadu, where police‑education partnerships become the catalyst for lasting social change.