Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has called upon the student community to unite in support of ‘Operation Thoofan’, the anti-drug campaign launched by Kerala Police to combat the growing menace of substance abuse in the society.

Addressing the valedictory function of the Student Police Cadet (SPC) State residential camp in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, Mr. Chennithala described drug abuse as one of the gravest threats that affected the State. Under such circumstances, SPC cadets could play a leading role in protecting the younger generations from addiction, and become brand ambassadors of anti-drug activities being undertaken in Kerala.

According to the Minister, ‘Operation Thoofan’ was launched to dismantle criminal networks involved in the sale of narcotics substances, particularly in the vicinity of educational institutions. He stressed that SPC cadets should stand at the forefront of the mission to ensure that the youth never fall prey to drugs.

Mr. Chennithala added that the SPC project has evolved into a symbol of pride for Kerala Police. The youth movement, functioning in Kerala for over one and a half decades, has achieved several milestones. He also said that discussions are under way to implement the SPC model across the country.

He commended the contributions made by SPC cadets in supporting fellow students, and assisting children in tribal areas with nutritious food, study materials and books, and participating in various social welfare activities. He also appreciated the role of SPC cadets in maintaining discipline during school arts festivals with the dedication of police personnel.

The Home Minister also announced that the ‘Home Minister’s Trophy’ would be awarded to the best-performing SPC cadet from next year onwards. As many as 939 cadets participated in the week-long camp. Mr. Chennithala received the ceremonial parade salute and distributed various awards to cadets during the event.

State Police Chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar, ADGPs S. Sreejith, P. Vijayan, Dinesh Kashyap, G. Lakshman, IG and SPC nodal officer S. Ajitha Begum were among those who attended the function.