Kolkata hospital holds awareness campaign against drug abuse for govt officials

(Written by Sharadiya Mitra)
In an attempt to address the alarming rise in drug abuse and associated substance use disorders, the Department of Psychiatric Social Work at the Institute of Psychiatry – Centre of Excellence (IPGMER – SSKM Hospital), under the West Bengal government, has collaborated with the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. They organised six detailed capacity building programmes throughout West Bengal in April 2025.
'These programmes were strategically designed to raise awareness, enhance knowledge, and develop effective prevention strategies among a diverse group of stakeholders, including correctional officers, police personnel, mental health professionals, social workers, educators, and community leaders,' said Mayank Kumar, assistant professor at the Institute.
'Our aim was to create a stronger, more coordinated response to substance abuse at multiple societal levels.'
The April sessions were conducted across police academies, correctional facilities, and the Narcotics Control Bureau. They featured engaging, audience-specific modules and training. Activities such as peer leadership development, inclusive discussions, and moving performances—such as the street play Nahi Nahi Bhoy at Dum Dum Central Correctional Home—
brought attention to the social, psychological, and economic factors underlying addiction. These formats aimed to help participants understand the value of early action, community involvement, and the need to reduce stigma.
The initiative provided practical guidance on fostering drug-free workplaces and empowering participants to support individuals recovering from substance use. The major aims were to raise awareness, oversee rehabilitation centres, and collaborate with mental health professionals for comprehensive care.
The campaign's recommendations included rolling out similar initiatives nationwide, applying harm reduction approaches, increasing budget allocations, and establishing addiction treatment facilities in every hospital and correctional setting.
'This initiative saw an overwhelming response with 602 participants—far beyond the target—engaging in sessions on early intervention, counselling, legal frameworks, and community strategies,' Kumar said.
'Renowned experts from institutions like NIMHANS, TISS, and CIP Ranchi enriched the sessions, offering critical insights into the needs of vulnerable groups, including adolescents, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and marginalised communities,' he said.
The programme concluded with strong calls for continuous public sensitisation, policy-level changes, and culturally relevant interventions. The emphasis was clear: shift from punitive practices to compassionate, community-centric strategies.
(Sharadiya Mitra is an intern with The Indian Express)

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