HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, June 26: Gauhati University observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 through a special programme organised by the university’s NSS Unit at its campus on Wednesday.
Although the global observance falls on June 26 each year, the event was held a day in advance owing to academic commitments, according to an official statement issued by the university.
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The programme was inaugurated by Prof Utpal Sarma, Registrar of Gauhati University, who underscored the crucial role of youth-led awareness campaigns in combating the increasing threat of drug abuse in society.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Sarma urged students to take proactive roles in fostering a drug-free academic environment and to serve as ambassadors of anti-drug messaging in their respective communities.
NSS Coordinator of Gauhati University, Dr Ranjan Kumar Kakoti, also spoke on the occasion, encouraging the students to actively participate in awareness efforts and community engagement initiatives.
He noted that students, when motivated and informed, could become powerful change-makers in the fight against drug abuse.
Prof Tulsi Bezbaruah, Director of the Gauhati University Institute of Science and Technology (GUIST), was present at the event and delivered a compelling address on the broader social implications of drug abuse.
He stressed the need for early intervention through education and outreach and advocated for a comprehensive approach that involves families, educational institutions, and law enforcement agencies.
The programme featured an in-depth awareness session delivered by P N Jha, Intelligence Officer from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Guwahati.
In his address, Jha outlined the current drug scenario in the region, highlighting alarming trends in trafficking and consumption, particularly among youth.
He elaborated on the role of the NCB in both enforcement and prevention and discussed the legal framework governing narcotics control in India, including the consequences of violating drug laws.
Jha called upon students to remain vigilant and to actively contribute to building a drug-free society through informed citizenship and peer engagement.
The event was coordinated by Dr Rituparna Borah, Programme Officer of the Gauhati University NSS Unit, who welcomed the participants and oversaw the conduct of the programme.
The observance concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony, where around 120 NSS volunteers and students vowed to stand against drug abuse and raise awareness within their communities.
The university stated that the event reflected its continued commitment to addressing social challenges and promoting student engagement in nation-building efforts through awareness, education, and civic responsibility.
