Nabarangpur:July 7 {UDN}: The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 was observed across Nabarangpur district with the objective of creating public awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the need to prevent illegal drug trafficking.
The programme was jointly organized by the District Excise Department and the District Social Security Department. A public awareness rally began at 8:30 a.m. from Gandhi Chhak and concluded at Sai Kalyan Mandap, with participants carrying placards and raising slogans promoting a drug-free society.
The rally was flagged off by Municipality Chairperson Kunu Nayak, District Social Security Officer Sudhanshu Kumar Patra, and Excise Superintendent Pratap Kumar Das.
Following the rally, an awareness meeting was held at Sai Kalyan Mandap. Municipality Chairperson Kunu Nayak attended as the Chief Guest, while District Social Security Officer Sudhanshu Kumar Patra delivered the keynote address. Other distinguished guests included BK Namita, Head of the Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya, Mohammad Habib from Akash Organisation, District Social Welfare Officer Draupadi Kahanr, and senior citizen as well as marathon runner Chittaranjan Patra.
The speakers emphasized that drug addiction has become a serious social menace affecting individuals and families alike. They expressed concern that, apart from substance abuse, mobile phone addiction has also become a growing problem among children and young people, requiring immediate attention and collective action.
The programme began with a melodious song performed by Preeti Kinnar from Nabarangpur, which captivated the audience. Chumuki Kinnar, Secretary of the District Kinnar Association, highlighted the dangers of drug abuse and appealed to everyone to actively participate in eliminating addiction from society.
A signature campaign was also organized to spread awareness against drug abuse. Students who excelled in painting, speech, and essay competitions conducted as part of the observance were honoured by the district administration with prizes and certificates.
The event was coordinated by Jagannath Behera, President of Asha Kiran and a noted playwright. Officials from the District Social Security Department, the Excise Department, and several other government departments actively participated in organizing the programme.
Students from various schools, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, personnel from the Police Department, Excise Department, Social Security Department, and members of the general public took part in the event. A pledge against drug abuse was administered to all participants.
In his concluding remarks, District Social Security Officer Sudhanshu Kumar Patra urged everyone to stay away from drugs and to work collectively towards making their families and society free from addiction. He appealed to citizens to take proactive steps in promoting a healthy, drug-free community.
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