Game ON Drugs OUT
The rampant spread of intoxicants like narcotic drugs has become an extremely serious crisis in the society. A large section of the population, including children and youth, is falling prey to this deadly menace.
Sports, the Perfect Solution
At a time when drug use has become a significant threat, sports and exercise are being promoted as the perfect antidote. Sports is not merely a process of producing champions; it is also a vital solution to numerous issues, including addiction, lack of motivation and various forms of dependency. Games and grounds offer a channel for children to positively direct their energy. They bring excitement and joy, infusing life with purpose. These spaces help mould a healthy citizen capable of meaningfully contributing to the nation’s future. Numerous studies have shown that sports foster not only physical health but also mental wellbeing.
It brings isolated youth together, leads to greater social unity and encourages individuals to become more responsible within their families, neighbourhoods and communities.To protect our children and youth from the scourge of addiction, the State Government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, has devised and is implementing extensive programmes. In this regard, the Department of Sports has a vital role to play. Sports is one of the most effective defence against substances like drugs. It is easier to keep addiction at bay through sporting activities. With this goal in mind, the foundation of the state’s sports policy was laid with the vision of Sports for All.
Decentralised Development of Sports
Exercise and physical activity are crucial in maintaining health. Games and workouts form the foundation of a society’s health status. In November 2024, the United Nations endorsed the idea that physical activity is a key pathway to sustainable development. Children have drifted away from playgrounds. There are several reasons for this: the growing influence of the digital world, limited access to play facilities and the excessive academic pressure placed on children. As a result, issues like lifestyle diseases are increasing among children. It is in this context that the Department of Sports launched the Sports Fitness Mission. The mission aims to attract people of all ages to exercise and play. Through this mission, the vision of ‘Sports for All’ can be realised. As part of the mission, a decentralised development model for sporting activities is being implemented.
Local sports councils were formed with this objective in mind. For the first time in India, sports councils are being established and functioning at the panchayat, municipal and corporation levels. Currently, all the schemes of the sports department are being implemented through these local sports councils, enabling grassroots-level sporting activity. The lack of playgrounds has been a major drawback in Kerala. It was one of the reasons that led children down the wrong path. However, over the past nine years, the government has spent `3,500 crore on developing sports infrastructure. Under the Department of Sports, around 500 projects — including large stadiums and common playgrounds — have been completed. The dream project of One Playground in Every Panchayat is ushering in significant change. Quality playgrounds are now emerging in every panchayat. Eight grounds have already been completed, and the construction of 76 more is nearing completion. These playgrounds are equipped with facilities such as open gyms and walkways. They also serve as community centres for local residents to come together. The Department of Sports has established 16 major fitness centres across the state. Five more are soon to be completed. Additionally, 16 open gyms have been built. These developments create more opportunities for physical activity and encourage more people to take part in sports.
Let’s Rally Behind Health
The Department of Sports is taking up the responsibility of bringing everyone to the playground. To liberate our children and youth from the grip of drugs — and to prevent them from falling into addiction — the department is conducting a comprehensive fitness awareness campaign across all 14 districts of Kerala. Every individual must develop a conscious understanding of the need to be healthy. This realisation calls for widespread publicity and awareness initiatives. The Department of Sports launched an anti-drug message rally that started on May 5 from Kasaragod and culminated on May 22 at Marine Drive, Ernakulam. This statewide anti-drug message rally toured all 14 districts. An anti-drug pledge was recited at every rally stop. Leading sportspersons and sports organisers and people from various walks of life were part of the rally.
The rally included mini-marathons, cyclothons, walkathons and sports exhibitions in two or three centres in each district. All sports organisations participated and showcased different sporting disciplines. Reclaiming playgrounds is one of the primary missions of the rally. Abandoned or overgrown playgrounds across the state will be restored and reopened for children. Sports kits will also be distributed at these venues. Let us all stand united to create an efficient and healthy future generation. Everyone must actively take part in this noble mission aimed at the betterment of Kerala. I hope that this anti-drug rally gives fuel to the collective fight against drug abuse.