Manipal: Center of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, under the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, MAHE observed the United Nations’ International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with a series of programmes at the Interact Hall in KMC on Wednesday, June 26.
The highlight of the programme was the release of a Ready Reckoner of Narcotics & Psychotropic Drugs, by the Vice Chancellor Dr. Vinod Bhat.
Speaking on the occasion, he observed that the drug menace has to be eradicated on a war footing, as it is spreading its tentacles across the globe.
Karkala ASP Krishnakant, who was the guest of honour, spoke at length about the provisions of the NDPS Act and the distinction between ‘small quantity’ and ‘commercial quantity’ and the various punishments prescribed for drug offences.
CNPS HEAD Dr. G. Shreekumar Menon spoke about the paucity of rehabilitation centers to cater to the needs of the nearly six crore addicts in the country. Associate Dean Dr. Sharat Rao spoke about the problems created by drugs in society.
The programme also witnessed the release of a TV promo produced by News Karnataka, titled “The Secret World of Narcotics & Psychotropic Substances”, a 24-episode serial. An online student magazine ‘Pineapple Express’ was also released on the occasion.
Two important MOU’s were signed on the occasion between MAHE and Bombay Hemp Company (BOHECO), for research into Medical Cannabis, and Hyderabad-based Center for Human Security Studies (CHSS) in the field of Narco-terrorism and Drug Trafficking.
The programme was jointly held with support from Canara Bank, Rotary Club Udupi-Manipal, News Karnataka, and The Hindu. Students participated in a poster competition and staged a flash mob to entertain the guests.
Dr. Vinod Nayak, HOD of Forensic Medicine welcomed the gathering. Director Student Affairs, Dr. GeethaMaiya proposed the Vote of Thanks.
