Dhaka: Speakers at a seminar here on Saturday stressed the need for raising awareness among the new generation, especially those of underprivileged section of society, to prevent drug abuse.

A special attention is needed to be given to underprivileged people and children as they are more vulnerable to drugs and tobacco, they said.

The seminar titled ‘Anti Drug and Tobacco Movement’ was jointly organised by Chetona Parishad, CATTT, ADHUNIK (Amra Dhumpan Nibaron Kori) and WHO Healthy City Forum at DUCSU cafeteria on the Dhaka University campus, marking the World No Tobacco Day.

Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, Dhaka University Vice-chancellor Prof Dr Md Akhtaruzzzaman said public awareness needs to be created to ensure a decent life for street children and underprivileged people.

He also called for including people from all walks of life in the process to raise awareness.

In his inaugural speech, UNB Chairman Amanullah Khan and President of ADHUNIK said only controlling narcotics is not enough as a stronger action plan is needed to check it.

‘Destroying the lives of children is enough to destroy a nation. Narcotics play a big role in the process, he said adding: ‘Children need to be made aware against drug abuse so that the future generation can be saved from its ill effects.’

Calling upon all to come forward to fight against narcotics, Director General of Department of Narcotics Control Jamal Uddin Ahmed said, ‘With every passing year, drug consumption is increasing.’

‘Department of Narcotics Control is ready to provide its all-out support to the organisations which are interested to work against drug and tobacco abuse,’ he added.

While presiding over the programme, Senior Secretary of Public Administration Ministry Dr Md Mozammel Haque Khan said narcotics cause a huge loss of intellect and productivity.

Former joint secretary of Education Ministry Shyama Prasad Bepari, president of CATTT Ali Neyamat, secretary of Religious Affairs Ministry Md Anisur Rahman, among others, spoke on the occasion.

Earlier, they formed a human chain in front of DUCSU Bhaban and distributed Eid dresses among street children.