Kochi: Expressing solidarity with the Kerala Government’s anti-drug initiative ‘Toofan’, Prof. Monamma Kokkatt led a public awareness rally at Kaloor International Stadium under the slogan “Don’t Smoke, Let Life Flourish.” The event aimed to promote a drug-free society and strengthen public awareness against tobacco use and substance abuse. The rally was flagged off by T.R. Devan, Managing Trustee of the Face Foundation.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Monamma Kokkatt said that following the High Court judgment in 1999, the number of smokers had significantly declined across the state. However, she expressed concern that smoking has once again been increasing among young people, irrespective of gender. She warned that tobacco use often becomes the first step towards dangerous chemical drug addiction, making sustained public awareness campaigns more important than ever.
As part of the awareness programme, volunteers distributed leaflets carrying the message “Never Me to Drugs” at Kaloor International Stadium. Among those who addressed the gathering were Soumi Sebastian, Adv. M.G. Sreejith, T.R. Devan, and Jeevan Lal Ravi.
