Observation of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking – 2026

The Department of Psychiatry, K.V.G. Medical College and Hospital, Sullia, in collaboration with the Nasha Muktha Committee and National Mental Health Policy, organized a program to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 30th June 2026 at 10:00 AM in the KVC Hall, KVG Medical College and Hospital, Sullia. The event was conducted as part of the institution’s Silver Jubilee Celebrations and was centered around the global theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

The program commenced with an invocation, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and hope. The event was gracefully compered by Dr. Merugu Akhila, Postgraduate Resident, Department of Psychiatry, and Dr. Manoj Postgraduate Resident, Department of Psychiatry, who effectively coordinated the proceedings and ensured the smooth flow of the program.

The gathering was warmly welcomed by Dr. Poonam M., Professor and Head, Department of Psychiatry, who emphasized the importance of collective efforts in preventing substance abuse and promoting mental well-being. The Inaugural Address was delivered by Dr. Neelambikai Natarajan, Dean, KVGMCH, who highlighted the growing burden of substance use disorders and the need for preventive education among youth.

An awareness skit performed by MBBS students creatively depicted the harmful consequences of drug abuse and conveyed the importance of making healthy life choices. The student performers were later felicitated with tokens of appreciation by the Dean for their commendable efforts.

An informative session titled “Overview of Substance Abuse” was delivered by Dr. Rashmi K., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, This was followed by an insightful lecture on the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act by Dr. Bharath Shetty, Professor and Head, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, who explained the legal aspects related to drug abuse and trafficking in India.

The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. K. V. Chidananda, President, A.O.L.E. and Medical Director, KVGMCH, who encouraged students and healthcare professionals to actively participate in creating a drug-free society through awareness, compassion, and responsible healthcare practices.

Title of the Event: Psychiatry Quiz Competition for Undergraduate Medical Students – 2026.

Organized By: The Department of Psychiatry, Sri Chamundeshwari Medical College, Hospital & Research Institute (SCMCH & RI) in association with the Indian Psychiatric Society – Karnataka Chapter (IPS-KC)

Date and Time: Friday, 22 May 2026.

A total of 48 groups participated in the overall Karnataka from that our college students Ms Akansha Singh final year medical student and Ms Deeksha pai third year medical student got 4th place. Participants were appreciated with token of appreciation.

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Dr. Amritha Ajay, Senior Resident, Department of Psychiatry, expressing sincere gratitude to the management, dignitaries, organizing committee, faculty members, students, participants, and attendees for contributing to the success of the event. The program ended with the National Anthem, leaving the audience inspired to work towards a healthier and drug-free society.

Dean

Dr. Neelambikai Natarajan

Dr. Neelambikai Natarajan is a alumna of Thanjavur Medical College, where she obtained her medical degree. She further pursued her MD in Physiology from Madras Medical College and an MBA in Hospital Administration from Alagappa University.

Throughout her academic medical career, Dr. Natarajan has served in various capacities at several prominent institutions, including Madras Medical College, Madurai Medical College, Government Medical College Coimbatore, Government KAP Vishwanathan Medical College in Trichy, and Meenakshi Medical College in Kanchipuram. With over 20 years of administrative experience, she has held the position of Dean in multiple medical colleges for more than a decade. Her expertise in faculty training within medical education has earned her widespread recognition.

In addition to her administrative roles, Dr. Natarajan has served as an assessor on the Medical Council of India (MCI) panel for over 15 years. She was also an Ex-Senate member of the MGR University and Secretary of the Ethics Committee. Dr. Natarajan has completed an Advanced Course in Medical Education (ACME). Since 2019, she has been serving as the Dean at KVG Medical College and Hospital in Sullia.