3. POLICY COVERAGE AND TARGET GROUP

This policy applies to:

• All BSc Nursing students (hostellers and day scholars)
• Faculty members and non-teaching staff
• Hostel wardens and caretakers
• Visitors, guest lecturers, and temporary workers on campus

4. DEFINITIONS

• Drugs/Substances: Includes narcotics, hallucinogens, stimulants, inhalants, cannabis, synthetic drugs, tobacco products, and alcohol.
• Drug Abuse: The use of drugs for non-medical purposes or in a manner harmful to self or others.
• Possession: Having control, custody, or ownership of a banned substance.
• Drug-Free Zone: All classrooms, labs, hostels, cafeteria, washrooms, parking areas, and college buses.

5. PROHIBITED BEHAVIOR

Strictly banned in all college and hostel premises:

• Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs
• Consumption of alcohol, tobacco, pan masala, e-cigarettes, etc.
• Encouraging others to consume or share such substances
• Entering campus under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Displaying any substance use behavior on social media while in uniform

6. PREVENTION STRATEGIES

a. Awareness and Education

• Orientation Programs for first-year students on drug risks
• Mandatory Anti-Drug Affidavit: As part of the admission process, all newly joining students are required to submit a duly signed Anti-Drug Affidavit declaring that they will not engage in the possession, use, or promotion of any form of drugs or psychoactive substances during their course of study. This document is co-signed by parents/guardians to ensure shared accountability.
• Annual Drug Awareness Week featuring talks, exhibitions, and competitions
• Workshops in collaboration with NGOs, health departments, and police
• Distribution of IEC Materials (Information, Education, Communication) on campus

b. Campus Activities

• Active functioning of NERKOOTTAM and SRADHA’S CLUB – student-led anti-drug clubs
• Street plays, flash mobs, pledge-taking events, wall posters, and essay competitions
• Observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse (June 26) every year

c. Faculty and Staff Sensitization

• Faculty training to identify at-risk behaviors
• Hostel warden briefings and spot-check protocols
• Annual review meetings for improvement of policy implementation

7. COUNSELING AND SUPPORT MECHANISMS

The college follows a non-punitive and supportive approach for early intervention:

• Access to a Student Counseling Cell for confidential emotional support
• Referral to de-addiction centers for students requiring medical help
• Regular follow-up and academic reintegration plans
• Parental involvement and counseling for students needing support

8. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

In the event of a confirmed violation, the following structured actions will be taken:

All disciplinary actions will be recommended by the Anti-Drug Committee and ratified by the Principal.

9. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

10. LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND COMPLIANCE

This policy complies with:

• Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985
• The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003
• University Grants Commission (UGC) Guidelines on Drug-Free Campuses
• Kerala State Anti-Narcotics Policy (latest update)

11. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

• Monthly meetings of Anti-Drug Committee
• Feedback collection from students through anonymous suggestion boxes
• Annual review of policy effectiveness and need for revisions

12. REHABILITATION AND REINTEGRATION POLICY

• Students undergoing de-addiction will be supported to resume academic activities post-recovery
• Absences due to rehabilitation will be considered as medical leave; however, the student must compensate for the missed hours before the university examinations to meet the required attendance criteria. Failure to complete the university-mandated clinical and theory hours will render the student ineligible to appear for the university examinations.
• Peer mentors and faculty advisors will assist in smooth academic reintegration

13. CONFIDENTIALITY

All cases reported and actions taken will be handled with strict confidentiality, ensuring the dignity and rights of the individual are protected.

14. POLICY REVIEW AND REVISION

This policy shall be reviewed every academic year or earlier if required. Changes will be approved by the Principal in consultation with faculty and student representatives.

15. CONCLUSION

This policy represents the college’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a drug-free, disciplined, and responsible student community. Every member of the College of Nursing family is expected to uphold this vision for the betterment of individual lives and the larger society.