New Delhi : Apeejay Stya University (ASU) organised a workshop on the adversities of drug abuse and illicit trafficking in order to create awareness and mindfulness about the issue. The workshop was jointly organised by the Rotaract Club of Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram (RACASUG) and the National Service Scheme (NSS).

Dr Deepak Yadav, chief scientist, National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, AIIMS Delhi, graced the event as the chief guest along with Nihar Hasabnis, head of department-Awareness, Muktangan NGO, Mumbai, who was the guest of honour. They discussed in detail about the addiction to drugs and why the substances are addictive.

Nihar Hasabnis, who works closely with patients’ rehabilitation, shared his observations regarding the impacts on mental health due to substance abuse being the most challenging aspect. He further added that people should understand the gravity of such addiction and how even family members at times have to be admitted due to mental trauma. 

Subsequently, Dr. Deepak Yadav conducted an in-depth analysis about the negative effects of drug abuse through a presentation. He shared some anecdotes to explain the impact of drug abuse. Further, he elaborated on how drugs affect motor neurons and psychomotor skills. In his opening statement, Dr. Yadav stated, “The topic we are planning to deliberate about is primarily issue of the youth.  Once a person becomes dependent on any drug, it is a lifelong disease that is why it is important to emphasise on the prevention.”

He stated that the best target audience to sensitise is the young generation.  He highlighted how the reason for taking and continuing drugs are different. Further, the didactical discussion focused on how the process of drug consumption begins and where it ultimately leads to. He also talked about how repeated exposure tends to make people more vulnerable.  The attendees found the session to be very informative and engaging.

All the participants were given e-certificates by the Narcotics Control Bureau whereby they committed to “consciously cooperate in stopping drug abuse and stay away from drugs to live a healthy life.”

The event was organised with the effort of Dr Vijay Kumar, Programmer Coordinator at ASU’s NSS wing with the guidance of Prof. Sanjay Ahirwal, Dean, Students Welfare and Dean, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, ASU.

The event was compered by Rotract club members of ASU namely, Chandrajeet Dhara, Sneha Jajoo and Charu Bansal.

The session concluded with emphasis laid on how drug abuse affects all domains of life. Therefore, it is important to be aware and receive the right guidance at the student level which are the foundation years of any individual’s life. The students thus pledged to never abuse drugs and prevent others too.