Teachers trained to tackle drug abuse
The training focused on the need to address not only tobacco use but also the exposure of adolescents to stimulants, depressants, opioids, and hallucinogens. Friday's session is part of the department's ongoing efforts to prepare action plan to curb drugs among students.
Pankaj Kumar, assistant district project officer said, "This time, we've broadened our scope to include other harmful substances beyond tobacco."
Sushant Kumar, consultant, district tobacco control cell, spoke on the root causes of drug abuse, which include curiosity, peer pressure, stress, trauma, family environment, and media influence. Sushant said, "Drug abuse often begins at home when children observe substance use among elders. Schools must step in to break this chain."
The training also covered early indicators of drug use, such as sudden behavioural changes, falling academic performance, a shift in peer groups, and noticeable physical symptoms. Teachers were educated on relevant legal frameworks, including Section 6 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act and Juvenile Justice Act, the officials added.
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