Legal Awareness programme on Drug abuse-Drugs a menace to the Society.

 Objectives of the Activity:

1. To create awareness about drug abuse and its impact on individuals, families, and society.
2. To educate students on the legal implications related to drug consumption, possession, and trafficking.
3. To encourage students to make informed and responsible choices

Activity Overview:

The Postgraduate and Undergraduate Department of Psychology, and Thrive tribe of Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem–Goa, organized a Legal Awareness Programme titled “Drug: A Menace to the Society” on 15 January 2025 at 12:30 p.m. in UGCR 7. The programme was conducted in collaboration with Vidya Vikas Mandal, District Legal Services Authority (South Goa, Margao), and the Goa Police Department. The programme aimed to create awareness among students about the growing problem of drug abuse, its psychological, social, and legal consequences, and the importance of preventive measures.

SI Veronica Coutinho explained the different types of drugs commonly abused, the reasons why individuals fall into substance abuse, and the long-term effects on physical and mental health. The session also addressed the social consequences, such as strained family relationships, academic failure, and social isolation.

A significant part of the programme focused on the legal aspects of drug abuse, where the resource person explained the laws under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. She highlighted the serious legal consequences of drug possession, consumption, and trafficking, stressing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse.

Outcomes of the Activity:

The programme successfully enhanced students’ awareness and understanding of:

• The dangers and consequences of drug abuse
• The legal provisions related to drugs and substance abuse
• The psychological and social impact of addiction