I had the privilege of participating in the launch of Operation Toofan in Thiruvananthapuram – the first major new initiative of the new Government of Kerala.

The name Toofan means a powerful storm. And there is wisdom in that name. A storm is fierce. It is determined. It does not negotiate with what stands in its path. But a storm is also something more: it clears the stagnant air, it washes the sky, and it is followed by clean light and fresh earth. Today, Kerala is raising such a storm against one of the gravest threats facing our society — the menace of drugs. We raise it not only to destroy what is poisoning us, but to clear the way for what we wish to grow.

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Let me be clear about what this is, and what it is not. This is not merely a police operation. It is a social mission. It is a mission to protect our children, our families and our future.

Kerala has always been known for its high literacy, its social development and its quality of life. Our state has produced great scholars, scientists, artists, sportspersons and professionals who have made us proud across the world.

And yet, today, we face a serious challenge. Drug abuse has spread into many parts of our society. It is no longer confined to a few cities or a few groups. It has reached our villages, our small towns and our urban centres alike.

The nature of the problem has changed as........

© Mathrubhumi English