The campaign focuses on fostering behavioural change with a powerful message, ''Not in my body. Not in my life. Not in my household. Not in my neighbourhood.''
Published Jun 27, 2025 | 11:24 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 27, 2025 | 11:24 AM
Kerala is taking stronger steps to address the growing crisis of substance abuse. (Supplied)
Kerala is taking stronger steps to address the growing crisis of substance abuse with the launch of the “No Entry” Anti-Drug Campaign in the Ernakulam constituency.
Led by MP Hibi Eden, the initiative marks a major community-driven push towards building drug-free environments. The campaign focuses on fostering behavioural change with a powerful message. ”Not in my body. Not in my life. Not in my household. Not in my neighbourhood.”
A key component of this initiative is the S.A.F.E. (Substance Abuse Free Environment) Village Program, being implemented across 24 panchayats, 9 municipalities, and the Cochin Corporation. Supported by the Fourth Wave Foundation’s Project VENDA and Jain University’s Future Kerala Mission, the program aims to create sustained and widespread impact over the next five years.
The S.A.F.E. Village Program is being rolled out in four phases:
The campaign works in close partnership with schools, local governments, the police force, and community-based organizations to ensure a holistic approach.
Kerala has been witnessing a disturbing rise in substance abuse, especially among young people, triggering the need for urgent and structured community action. Project VENDA, which has already reached over 10 lakh children across the state with drug prevention education, has earned recognition from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for its impactful work.
The “No Entry” campaign is driven by the belief that meaningful change is only possible through strong community collaboration. Teachers, parents, civic leaders, and private stakeholders are being mobilized to create safe, supportive environments for vulnerable youth.
With Ernakulam setting the example, the initiative is expected to serve as a model for other districts across Kerala and even other states, in the collective effort to secure a drug-free future for the next generation.
