Promoting awareness beyond the classroom, Dumka Engineering College (DEC), a constituent institution of Techno India Group, observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse on 26 June 2026 with a series of engaging awareness programmes that encouraged students to take a stand against substance abuse and become advocates for a healthier society.
The highlight of the programme was a powerful Nukkad Natak (Street Play) performed by the first-year B.Tech students of the 2025–29 batch, which left a lasting impression on the audience through its emotional storytelling and impactful social message.
Organised with the objective of educating students about the dangers of drug addiction, the event brought together students, faculty members, and staff to discuss the physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences of substance abuse. Through informative sessions, motivational speeches, and cultural performances, participants gained a deeper understanding of how addiction affects individuals, families, and communities.
The street play received widespread appreciation for its realistic portrayal of how casual experimentation with drugs can gradually lead to addiction, poor mental and physical health, loss of educational opportunities, damaged family relationships, and social isolation. The performance concluded with a powerful message that awareness, counselling, family support, and collective community action are the strongest tools in building a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ganesh Shankar, Principal of Dumka Engineering College, emphasized that young people are the nation’s greatest strength and must be protected from the harmful effects of drug addiction. He encouraged students to focus on education, innovation, sports, and skill development while inspiring others to stay away from addictive substances. Appreciating the performers and organisers, he highlighted the vital role educational institutions play in creating socially responsible citizens.
Dr. Ratan Kumar Bose, Vice-Principal, described awareness as the most effective weapon against substance abuse. He urged students to build strong character, self-discipline, and resilience to resist negative influences and praised the first-year students for delivering a meaningful performance that effectively communicated an important social message.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Pankaj Sarkar, President of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), remarked that innovation is most meaningful when it serves society. He encouraged students to use their creativity, leadership, and communication skills to address social issues, adding that awareness campaigns and cultural performances are powerful forms of innovation that inspire positive change.
Dr. Ranadeep Dey, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, highlighted the impact of drug addiction on concentration, creativity, productivity, and career growth. He encouraged students to use technology and social media responsibly to spread awareness about healthy lifestyles and social responsibility.
Experts present during the programme also spoke about the growing global challenge of drug abuse, highlighting its serious impact on physical and mental health, academic performance, employment, and overall well-being. They stressed that prevention through education, counselling, family support, and community participation remains the most effective way to combat addiction.
The programme reinforced the importance of educational institutions in nurturing socially responsible citizens. Through activities such as awareness campaigns, street plays, and community engagement initiatives, students not only develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills but also gain a stronger sense of empathy and civic responsibility.
The event concluded with a collective pledge by students, faculty members, and staff to lead a drug-free life and spread awareness among their families, friends, and communities about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
By observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse with such meaningful initiatives, Dumka Engineering College once again demonstrated its commitment to holistic education, youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building, encouraging students to become catalysts for positive change both on campus and in society.