Thu Jun 26 16:06:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, focusing on the core news:
**Kerala Launches Ambitious Anti-Drug Campaign in Schools**
**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, June 26, 2025** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today inaugurated a comprehensive state-level anti-drug campaign aimed at students, declaring drug addiction a “deadly scourge” that undermines intellect and societal well-being. The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of General Education, was launched at Cotton Hill Higher Secondary School in Thiruvananthapuram on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The action plan seeks to engage students as “frontline fighters” against drug abuse by addressing a perceived lack of awareness about existing government anti-drug measures. A key component of the plan is training for teachers, who will be tasked with raising awareness and deterring students from drug use.
Recognizing the critical role of families, the campaign will also provide special training for parents, empowering them to effectively communicate with their children, monitor their behavior, and create a supportive home environment.
Other aspects of the plan include:
* A special book, prepared by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), focusing on healthy lifestyles.
* The establishment of “Prahari Clubs” to monitor drug-related activities within schools.
* The activation of “Jagratha Brigades,” composed of 30-50 students from selected schools, to coordinate anti-drug initiatives.
* Organizing community discussions against drugs.
* A weekly review of complaints received through these platforms, led by head teachers.
The campaign, set to run from today until January 30, 2026, will involve students, teachers, parents, and the general public. Chief Minister Vijayan urged widespread participation to foster a lasting change in attitudes towards drug abuse.
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