Aligarh: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26, 2025, through a series of awareness programmes across departments and centres. The day, designated by the United Nations in 1987, promotes global cooperation to combat drug abuse and trafficking and reinforces the importance of prevention, rehabilitation, and social responsibility. AMU’s observance this year focused on educating students and staff about the multifaceted impact of substance abuse on individuals and society.
At the Centre for Continuing and Adult Education and Extension (CCAEE), a lecture on “Drug Free Campus” was delivered by Prof. Shah Alam, Chairman, Department of Psychology, who explained the links between illicit drug trade and global crimes such as human trafficking and environmental degradation. Emphasising the emotional, social, and economic costs of addiction, he called for long-term, coordinated efforts in prevention and rehabilitation. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Shamim Akhtar, Director, CCAEE.
The Department of Pharmacology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), in collaboration with the ADR Monitoring Centre of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, organised a significant awareness event under the “Mission Drug Free Campus” initiative. As part of the nationwide Nasha Mukt Bharat Pakhwada, a public lecture titled “Substance Abuse: A Menace to Society” was delivered by Prof. Syed Ziaur Rahman, Chairman of the department. He discussed the rising threat of substance dependence in India, especially among the youth, and emphasised the critical role of academic institutions in its prevention. The event saw active participation from faculty, resident doctors, and staff and was lauded by Prof. Mohammad Habib Raza, Dean, Faculty of Medicine, for its impactful outreach.
In an effort to take awareness beyond classrooms, a Road Rally was organised by 1/8 and 2/8 Companies of NCC AMU. The rally was conducted under the guidance of Col. Ajay Lumba, Commanding Officer, 8 UP Battalion, Aligarh. Capt. Najaf Ali Khan addressed the cadets on the harmful effects of alcohol and tobacco consumption on youth. The rally featured 50 participating cadets and was supported by Subedar Dhara Singh, Hav. Chanchal, Hav. Anup Kumar, Senior Cadet Kuldeep Kumar, and administrative staff members Abdul Mannan and Ansar.
