Kerala Launches War on Drugs

The Government of Kerala has constituted a ‘think tank’ to closely monitor the use of intoxicating products and the consequential, increasing trend of violence among the youth. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a meeting of student – youth organisations, organisations in the film, culture and media sectors, parent – teacher associations and experts in various fields to chalk out an action plan. A web portal will be set up to help people confidentially share information regarding the sale and use of narcotics. The identity of the person providing the information will not be revealed. Currently, there is a WhatsApp number for this (9497979794, 9497927797). An action plan will be prepared in the months of April and May and implemented in schools and colleges when the academic year begins in June. Chief Minister has proposed introducing Zumba sessions after classes in the state’s schools to improve children’s physical and mental health. Chief Minister assured that necessary administrative measures will be taken to prevent drugs being smuggled in from many parts of the country.