Bhubaneswar, Aug 3 (UDN): A landmark step towards inclusive public health education was taken in Bhubaneswar with the launch of India’s first Braille book on substance use prevention, titled “Yes to Life, No to Drugs.” The initiative aims to ensure that children and young persons with visual impairment have equal access to awareness and education on the dangers of substance use.
The book has been prepared by social worker and drug prevention advocate Dr Mohammad Imran Ali and published by Salaam Jeevan, a voluntary organisation dedicated to health promotion, substance use prevention, disability inclusion, and youth development.
Designed especially for visually impaired readers, the Braille publication presents important information about the causes, risks, and long-term health and social consequences of tobacco, alcohol, and other addictive substances in a simple and accessible format.
The initiative addresses a crucial gap in awareness outreach by making preventive education available to communities that are often excluded from conventional information resources. It highlights the importance of knowledge, awareness, and informed decision-making as powerful tools in preventing addiction among children and young people.
The publication also underlines the need for a collective approach involving families, educational institutions, communities, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, and government agencies to create a healthier and addiction-free society.
Aligned with the objectives of the Government of India’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the Braille book supports efforts towards prevention, rehabilitation, awareness generation, and social inclusion. By bringing substance use prevention education into an accessible format, the initiative strengthens the participation of persons with visual impairment in the national campaign against addiction.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mohammad Imran Ali said that access to awareness and knowledge is essential for protecting the health, dignity, and future of every child and young person, including those with visual disabilities.
The organisation has announced that the book will be provided free of cost to visually impaired readers through the postal network. Special schools, students, libraries, rehabilitation centres, and organisations working for persons with disabilities will be able to access this important educational resource.
The launch of “Yes to Life, No to Drugs” marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts towards inclusive health communication. The initiative represents a commitment to ensuring that no section of society is left behind in the fight against substance abuse and in building a healthier, safer, and more inclusive India.
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