Ministry of Education Launches Nationwide Enforcement Drive to Make Educational Institutions Tobacco and Substance-Free

In a major step toward protecting students and youth from the harmful effects of tobacco and substance abuse, Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education has issued a strong call for action to all States and Union Territories (UTs) to strictly enforce rules and guidelines that keep areas around educational institutions free of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.

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Nationwide enforcement drive, issued by Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, DoSEL, comes after the 8th Apex Committee meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) held on May 15, 2025. This high-level meeting, chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, highlighted the urgent need to safeguard young minds from harmful substances and called for coordinated efforts between education and law enforcement departments.

Why This Is Important

India has one of the youngest populations in the world, with a large number of its citizens below the age of 29. This youth population represents a powerful force for the country's future and protecting them — which represents a major demographic strength — is crucial for building a Viksit Bharat.