Bangalore, January 7, 2024 – The Bengaluru District Police, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with Alliance University, successfully organized the "SAY NO TO DRUGS" Awareness Campaign on Sunday, January 7, 2024. The event, held at the Alliance University Central Campus, brought together over 1890 individuals, symbolizing a collective dedication to building a healthy, substance-free community. The event featured a 5 km run and a 3 km walk, welcoming participation from students, faculty, staff, and individuals from various schools and universities, and receiving sponsorship from prominent organizations such as Narayana Health, Biocon, BJLR Industries Association, BIA, Sri Sairam Institutions, The Oxford Medical College, Hospital, and Research Center, Nambiar Builders, and Alliance Alumni Association.

Distinguished guests, Dr. B.R. Ravikanthe Gowda (IPS), Mr. Mallikarjun Baldandi (IPS), Mr. Purushottam (Additional SP-1), Mr. Nagraju K S (Additional SP-2), Mr. Mohan Kumar B.S. (DYSP Anekal Sub Division), Kantara fame actress Ms. Sapthami Gowda, Kousalya Supraja Rama fame actress Ms. Brinda Acharya, Raana fame actor Mr. Shreyas Manju, in the presence of Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi (Pro-Chancellor, Alliance University), and Ms. Surekha Shetty (Registrar General, Alliance University), added a star-studded flair to the event.

Dr. B.R. Ravikanthe Gowda (IPS) emphasized the impact of drug abuse on youth and stressed the importance of raising awareness about the associated dangers. Ms. Saptami Gowda, whose father served as DySP in the Anekal division, shared her family's deepest respect for the police department and commended the collective efforts in organizing the event. Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi applauded the collaborative efforts of Bengaluru District Police, Alliance University, and other organizations in conducting an anti-drug awareness campaign and expressed his willingness to endorse similar initiatives in the future.

Vintage cars adorned the grounds, adding a touch of elegance and motivation for the participants, who thoroughly enjoyed the sight of these classic automobiles. Winners in the respective categories received cash prizes totaling up to ₹1.2 lakhs, elevating the sense of achievement and celebration. The inauguration of the Alliance University Chikkahagade Police Booth highlighted the ongoing efforts for the safety and security of the community.

The event also resonated with the Global Goal of good health and well-being of communities, where life without drugs or substance abuse has become one of the most important agenda items of the current times. Aligned to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) defined by the United Nations, the awareness campaign garnered massive success in bringing together youth from across communities to promote a drug-free society.