Team Goemkarponn
CUNCOLIM: More than 250 students at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Goa pledged to stay away from drugs and report narcotics-related activities as a nationwide anti-drug motorcycle rally entered Goa, bringing the fight against substance abuse to campuses and communities.
The anti-drug awareness programme was held at the NIT Goa campus in Cuncolim following the rally’s entry into the state through the Pollem Border Check Post. Eleven motorcycle riders from Goa Police joined the convoy, which is travelling towards Gujarat as part of a nationwide campaign promoting national unity and a drug-free India.
Addressing students, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Goa Keshav Chaurasiya, IPS, warned that drug abuse was not merely an individual health concern but also a serious threat to social stability and national security. Citing examples of Ecuador and Colombia, he highlighted how unchecked narcotics networks could undermine economies and governance.
The IGP urged young people to resist peer pressure, remain vigilant and report drug-related activities to the authorities. He highlighted the MANAS National Anti-Drug Helpline (1933) for drug-related information and assistance, as well as the emergency response number 112 for urgent help.
The session concluded with over 250 students taking a collective pledge to reject narcotics and actively contribute to efforts to eradicate the drug menace.
The motorcycle rally, themed ‘Fight Against Drugs’, brings together riders from Kerala, Lakshadweep and Karnataka. Flagged off from Kerala, it forms part of the nationwide observances marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2026. The convoy is scheduled to reach Gujarat on October 30.
NIT Goa Director Prof. Omprakash Jaiswal also addressed the issue of drug abuse. DIG Goa Ved Prakash Surya, IPS, South Goa SP Akshat Aayush, IPS, SP Sunita Sawant, nodal officer, and Anti-Narcotics Cell SP Harish Madkaikar were among those present. Sawant delivered the welcome address, while Madkaikar proposed the vote of thanks.
