CM D.K. Shivakumar Sets 2028 Target for Drug-Free Karnataka; ₹89 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed
Bengaluru, June 30: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday reaffirmed the Karnataka Government’s commitment to making the state drug-free by 2028, calling upon students, youth, parents and the public to join hands with the government in eliminating the menace of narcotics.
Speaking after inaugurating the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 programme organised by the Karnataka State Police at Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium, the Chief Minister said a collective effort by society was essential to dismantle the drug network operating in the state.
“Our goal is to build a Drug-Free Karnataka by 2028. This is not merely a government programme but a people’s movement. If students, youth and the public stand with the government, we can eradicate this menace,” he said.
‘Say No to Drugs, Choose Happiness’
The Chief Minister urged young people to reject substance abuse and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
“Our message is simple—Say No to Drugs, Choose Happiness. Every individual should build strong values and remain mentally resilient. Students and youth should never succumb to peer pressure or temptation,” he said.
He also appealed to educational institutions to strengthen awareness campaigns against drug abuse and encourage students to become ambassadors of the anti-drug movement.
₹89 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed
Highlighting the government’s crackdown on drug trafficking, Shivakumar said that narcotic substances worth ₹89 crore had been destroyed over the past three years during the tenure of former Home Minister Dr G. Parameshwara.
He congratulated senior police officers, investigating teams, constables and all personnel involved in dismantling drug syndicates across Karnataka.
Parents Asked Not to Hide Drug Abuse
The Chief Minister urged parents not to conceal cases of drug addiction within their families out of fear of social stigma.
“If parents hide their children’s addiction, they risk destroying their future. Instead, they should counsel them and cooperate with the police in identifying the source of narcotics. I assure you that the identities of affected children will be protected,” he said.
Rewards for Informants
Announcing a new initiative, Shivakumar said the Police Department would reward citizens and parents who provide confidential information about drug consumption or trafficking.
He said the reward scheme would encourage people to come forward with intelligence, helping law enforcement dismantle supply networks more effectively.
“The fight against drugs will safeguard our families, neighbourhoods, villages and the future of Karnataka. It will also contribute to national development,” he said.
Warning on Pan Masala and Gutka
The Chief Minister expressed concern over reports that intoxicating substances were being mixed with pan masala and gutka, and that such products were allegedly being delivered directly to consumers through phone-based orders.
He warned that the government would take strict action against anyone found mixing narcotic substances with pan masala or gutka.
“I have already conveyed a clear message that anyone found adulterating pan masala or gutka with intoxicating substances will face stringent action,” he said.
Public Participation Crucial
Referring to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, Shivakumar said tobacco consumption claims the lives of 13–14 lakh people every year in India, underscoring the need for stronger public awareness.
He said Student Policing programmes have already been introduced in schools and colleges, while an anti-drug task force had been constituted earlier to strengthen enforcement.
The Chief Minister urged citizens to actively support the police in reporting drug abuse and other unlawful activities, stating that public cooperation was critical for the success of the campaign.
He also encouraged students to help friends who may have fallen victim to addiction, reminding them that they were not only students but also responsible citizens.
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to healthcare and skilled manpower, Shivakumar noted that nearly 19,940 doctors and more than one lakh nursing professionals graduate from the state every year, while Karnataka continues to produce some of the country’s finest engineers.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister appealed to the public to place their trust in the police, stating that the force works tirelessly to protect society and that elected representatives across the state would join hands to realise the vision of a Drug-Free Karnataka by 2028.
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