The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed at Ramakrishna Mission Students’ Home, Chennai, on 26 June 2026, in keeping with the global commitment to raising awareness about the perils of substance abuse among the youth.
The programme commenced with a prayer offered by all the participants, invoking divine blessings and setting a spirit of attentiveness and resolve for the session ahead.
The main session was conducted by Dr. R. Mani and their team from VHS Hospital, Adyar, Chennai. Through an informative and interactive presentation, the speakers highlighted the harmful effects of drug abuse, the importance of making healthy life choices, and effective methods of preventing addiction. Emphasis was also placed on the need to seek timely counselling and professional support when faced with the challenges of substance dependence.
The session effectively created awareness among the students regarding the physical, psychological, social, and legal consequences of substance abuse. The participants were encouraged to lead disciplined and value-based lives, in consonance with the ideals of the Holy Trio — Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda.

