Druxit anti-drug awareness conclave held

Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday inaugurated Druxit, an anti-drug awareness conclave organised by the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in Kottayam.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasised the need to raise awareness among younger generations about the dangers of drug abuse. He urged citizens to treat the fight against drug addiction as a national mission.

The event was presided over by Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, Catholicos of the East. In his address, the Catholicos announced plans to set up a Wellness Park on a 14-acre property near Kottayam town as part of the Church’s commitment to holistic health. He also reaffirmed the Church’s readiness to support those seeking to overcome addiction.

Several other religious and political leaders extended their support to the initiative. Speakers included Joseph Mar Barnabas, Suffragan Metropolitan of the Nilackal diocese, Mar Thoma Syrian Church; Mar Jacob Muricken, former Auxiliary Bishop of Pala, Syro-Malabar Church; Malayil Sabu Koshi Cherian, Bishop of the CSI Madhya Kerala diocese; Shafiq Mannani, Chief Imam, Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid; and Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, MLA. Metropolitan Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, president of the Orthodox Church’s Human Empowerment Department, welcomed the gathering.

Filmmaker Blessy inaugurated the first session of the event while Divya S. Iyer, managing director of Vizhinjam International Seaport, delivered the keynote address.

The summit saw the participation of the clergy, representatives from various faith-based organisations, teachers, students and members of the public.

Published - June 14, 2025 07:38 pm IST