A drug is a chemical substance, not a nutrient, that produces a biological effect when introduced to a living organism. They can be used for various purposes, but when used inappropriately they pose high risk of addiction and abuse. Drug abuse or substance abuse refers to the use of certain chemicals for the purpose of creating pleasurable effects on the brain. There are over 190 million drug users around the world and the problem has been increasing at alarming rates, especially among young adults under the age of 30. India is placed at the 18th position out of 30 countries in Global Drug Policy Index, with highest drug users age ranging between 14-35 years. Thus, it is a global concern.

The coastal belt of Karnataka, especially Udupi is ranked third in Karnataka for drug-related cases. Thus, the Superintendent of Police, Udupi has taken serious initiatives in collaborating with all the colleges of the region and initiated the Anti-Drug and Awareness Committees. The Department of Wellness of Don Bosco School, Trasi has successfully established an Anti-Drug and Awareness Committee (ADAC) in the school, comprising of School Management, Staff and Students. The committee initiated their first awareness program on 2nd August 2025 for the students of Classes IX to XII in the School Auditorium.

The School Nodal Officer of the committee, Mrs. Rakshitha N.J along with the Biology Lecturer, Mrs. Anitha Devadiga shared the information on Physiological Effects of Drug Abuse. During the presentation they shared the details regarding the meaning of drugs and drug abuse, the types of drugs, the causes of drug abuse, the effect of drugs on the physical health, the physiological process of addiction and the factors influencing addiction susceptibility. The Nodal Officer shared the purpose of the establishment of the Anti-Drug and Awareness Committee in the school, the role of the students and the QR code to be put up on the School Notice Board and in the Junior College Section for registering Anonymous Complaints related to Drug Abuse or Drug Network. The committee aims to conduct periodic awareness programs in the school on various effects and management strategies to keep the students and the vicinity drug-free. The students actively participated in the session.