The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) Rajasthan Unit organized a series of awareness programs and cleanliness campaigns across opium cultivation areas on October 2nd, 2026, coinciding with National Anti-Drug Addiction Day and the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The initiatives aimed to sensitize cultivators and local communities about the harmful effects of drug abuse while promoting the message of a drug-free India.
At the University of Kota, an awareness session was conducted under Operation Yuva Raksha, attended by Registrar Shri Murlidhar Pratihar, NSS Head Ms. Shweta, faculty members, and students. Deputy Narcotics Commissioner Shri Naresh Bundel interacted with students, explaining how manipulation, peer pressure, and social conditioning can influence individuals toward drug addiction. The session used practical examples, presentations, and videos to explain concepts of Fast Mind and Slow Mind, demonstrating how initial exposure to addictive substances can lead to repeated use, habit formation, and dependence.
Multiple programs were conducted across various districts: DOO Kota organized a program for opium cultivators on the harmful effects of opium, cannabis, and other illicit drugs with banner displays and oath-taking ceremonies. DOO Jhalawar conducted programs in poppy cultivation villages near Babrikhda, Tehsil Jhalrapatan, focusing on adverse effects of substance abuse and community participation. DOO Bhilwara organized programs at Sawaipur-Badala Bypass Highway with participation from hundreds of local residents and cultivators. DOO Chittorgarh-I conducted an Awareness and Cleanliness Campaign under Yuva Raksha and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Menar Village, Tehsil Vallabhnagar, District Udaipur, combining drug-free lifestyle messaging with cleanliness drives. DOO Chittorgarh-III organized programs at Mangrol poppy cultivation village, highlighting physical, psychological, and social consequences of drug abuse, with activities included in Gram Sabha proceedings. DOO Pratapgarh-II conducted Awareness and Cleanliness Campaign at Village Gomana, Chhoti Sadri, combining cleanliness messaging with drug abuse prevention.
All programs emphasized that drug abuse prevention requires active participation from all society sections, particularly local communities and cultivators. Participants took Drug De-Addiction Pledges (Nasha Mukti Pledge), committing to stay away from drugs and contribute toward a healthier, drug-free society. The campaigns highlighted the significance of Gandhi's message of self-discipline, social responsibility, and healthy society in inspiring anti-substance abuse efforts.