TNI Bureau: The international day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is being observed today across the globe to raise awareness about the dangers and problems that illicit drugs pose to the society at large.
On 7th December 1987, the General Assembly of United Nations (UN) decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) selects themes for the International Day and launches. The theme of the day this year is – “Global Action for the Health Communities Without Drugs.”
In his message, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr Ban Ki Moon said, “efforts to promote development and fight drugs and crime will be more effective if they are rooted in partnerships with the young, civil society, governments and the international community.”
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To mark the day, various events are being held across the globe to create awareness about the drastic effects of drugs.
In Mumbai, a week-long awareness drive to educate people about ill-effects of drug abuse and addiction is being held. Street plays, distribution of pamphlets, poster presentation, one to one information exchange and counseling sessions are part of the awareness drive on this occasion.
The Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Mr. Mukul Wasnik has emphasized the need to create awareness among masses to prevent drug abuse and illicit trafficking in young generation.
However, the Government has a long way to go in preventing illegal trade in drugs from international markets and across the border. In fine, such awareness campaign is indeed a welcome step to raise awareness about the global drug problem.