Kerala Excise Department hardens surveillance to deterrent drug spread in schools

These initiatives were prompted by the recent spurious liquor disaster in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi, leading to similar precautions in Kerala, particularly in districts bordering neighboring states.

The Kerala Excise Department has increased its efforts to improve surveillance around schools to combat drug use and proliferation. In a high-level meeting chaired by State Excise Minister M B Rajesh, directives were issued to ensure robust monitoring and vigilance in educational institutions, with an emphasis on appointing women officers and forming specialized squads if necessary.

Minister Rajesh stressed the importance of these measures during the current school session and called for special training programs for female excise officers. These initiatives were in response to the recent spurious liquor disaster in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi, prompting similar precautions in Kerala, especially in districts bordering neighboring states.

Furthermore, the excise department plans to intensify inspections of shops near school premises. These concerted efforts aim to mitigate the risks of drugs and illicit alcohol, safeguarding the well-being of students and the broader community.