Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay participated in the Start Run Stop Drugs awareness run held at Marina Beach in Chennai on Friday to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The event was organized to promote awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage citizens, especially young people, to lead healthy and drug free lives.
The Chief Minister formally flagged off the awareness run before joining hundreds of participants, including students, government officials, healthcare professionals, police personnel, volunteers, and members of the public. The event witnessed significant public participation and highlighted the state's commitment to preventing substance abuse through awareness and community engagement.
Addressing participants, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating drug abuse. He called upon educational institutions, parents, community organizations, and government agencies to work together to educate young people about the risks associated with narcotic substances and illegal drug trafficking.
The awareness run formed part of the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is marked every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a society free from drug abuse. Governments and organizations across the world conduct awareness campaigns, educational programs, and public outreach activities to encourage prevention and rehabilitation.
Officials said the campaign aims to increase awareness about the health, social, and economic consequences of substance abuse while encouraging people to seek help through counseling and rehabilitation services when needed. Public awareness initiatives are considered an important component of efforts to reduce drug use, particularly among young people.
Participants carried messages promoting healthy lifestyles and community responsibility in preventing drug abuse. Several awareness activities were also organized alongside the run to educate the public about the harmful effects of narcotic substances and the importance of early intervention.
The Tamil Nadu government has been conducting awareness campaigns in educational institutions and public places as part of its broader strategy to prevent drug abuse and strengthen enforcement against the illegal drug trade. Officials have stated that public participation is essential for the success of such initiatives.
The awareness run concluded peacefully, with participants expressing support for continued campaigns promoting health, safety, and social responsibility. The government has indicated that similar public outreach programs will continue across the state to reinforce awareness and encourage collective action against drug abuse.