Bengaluru, June 30: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Tuesday that the state government aims to achieve a drug-free Karnataka by 2028. He urged citizens, students, and youth to support this initiative against substance abuse.
Shivakumar made this statement during the inauguration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 event, organized by the Karnataka Police at the Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru.
“Our goal is to create a drug-free and addiction-free Karnataka by 2028. We are committed to this cause. If the public, youth, and students work together with the government, we can eliminate this illegal trade,” he stated.
The Chief Minister emphasized the message: “Choose happiness over addiction.” He called on young people to adopt positive values and resist the pressures of substance abuse.
He urged parents not to hide their children’s addiction due to fear of social stigma. “The longer this issue is concealed, the more harm it will cause to the child’s future. Educate your children and cooperate with the police to reach the sources of drug supply. This will help save many other youths. I have instructed the police department to keep the identities of such children confidential,” he added.
Shivakumar announced that the government would reward individuals who provide credible information related to drug use and trafficking.
“Parents and citizens who share confidential information about drug-related issues will be recognized by the police department. This will assist in dismantling the networks supplying drugs,” he explained.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the commitment made today should become a lifelong pledge, encouraging people to spread awareness in their communities.
He highlighted that under the leadership of former Home Minister G. Parameshwara, approximately ₹890 million worth of narcotics have been destroyed in the last three years.
“I commend all senior police officers, constables, and staff who have worked to dismantle the drug networks,” he said.
Shivakumar again urged parents not to conceal their children’s drug-related issues due to societal stigma.
“A drug-free Karnataka is not just a government slogan; it is a collective commitment of every Kannadiga,” he asserted.
He expressed concern that the police have informed the government about the mixing of narcotics in products like gutkha and pan masala, and that drugs are being supplied door-to-door via phone.
“I have made it clear that strict action will be taken against those who mix narcotics with pan masala or gutkha. Home Minister Priyank Kharge is taking effective measures in this regard,” he stated.
Citing a World Health Organization report, the Chief Minister noted that approximately 1.3 to 1.4 million people die in India each year due to tobacco use.
“Our country’s culture, language, and diversity are admired worldwide. Addiction should never define our identity,” he remarked.
To raise awareness among youth, the government has initiated a student policing system in schools and colleges. Additionally, a special task force has been established to combat drug use and other illegal activities.
He encouraged people to collaborate with the police to eliminate drugs and other unlawful activities.
Addressing students directly, he said they could play a crucial role in helping friends caught in addiction.
“You can change your friends’ lives. You are not just students; you are responsible citizens of the country. The world looks to Bengaluru. Every year, around 19,940 doctors, over 100,000 nurses, and thousands of engineers are trained in Karnataka. We must protect our youth from the dangers of addiction,” he urged.
The Chief Minister appealed to the public to trust the police, stating that they are an extension of every family and work for the welfare of society and the state.
“To build a drug-free Karnataka, all elected representatives must work together,” he concluded.
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