Tamil Nadu CM Vijay flags off anti-drug marathon, runs to spread awareness

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, on Friday (June 26, 2026), flagged off and ran in a marathon organised by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) to create awareness against the use of drugs and narcotic substances.

Marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Vijay administered a pledge in which the participants of the ‘Anti Drug Run 2026’ took a solemn oath to abstain from drugs, educate their families and friends about the harmful effects of drug addiction, and contribute their efforts towards helping those who are struggling with substance abuse to recover.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay participates in the marathon organised on the occasion of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, in Chennai on Friday
| Photo Credit:
X/@CMOTamilnadu

Earlier, the Chief Minister signed on the commitment board saying ‘Sports-ah edu, drugs-ah vidu’ (Take up sports, give up drugs).

Similar anti-drug runs and mini-marathons were organised in several districts across Tamil Nadu to promote a healthy lifestyle among people.

Emphasising that raising awareness about the evils of substance abuse is paramount to securing the future of the youth and curbing crime, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of constructive engagement, strict legal enforcement, and community cooperation in building a resilient society.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay after signing ‘Sports-ah edu, drugs-ah vidu’ on a board during an event held to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Chennai on June 26, 2026
| Photo Credit:
B. Jothi Ramalingam

“On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, it is vital to raise awareness about the devastating effects of drugs in order to protect the future of our youth, prevent crime, and create a drug-free Tamil Nadu,” he said in a social media post.

“We can eradicate drugs and build a resilient society by actively engaging our youth in constructive avenues such as education, sports, and skill development, alongside enforcing stringent legal actions and fostering collective community efforts”, he said, adding “let us all stand in support of the various initiatives undertaken by the Government of Tamil Nadu to prevent drug-related crimes, and pledge on this day to forge a drug-free, secure, and healthy Tamil Nadu.”