Everyone must be aware of the ill effects of liquor consumption and give up the habit through self-inspiration. Only then a liquor-free society can be build, said wellknown psychiatrist Dr K A Ashok Pai.

Speaking after inaugurating the district-level officers’ workshop organised under the aegis of Jana Jagriti Vedike of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts at Guruvayankere on Tuesday, he said there is no specific medicine or cure for addiction to liquor. Due to addiction, a person loses control over his five vital senses and becomes prone to heart attack, road accidents and crimes. They become physically and mentally dependent on others and indulge themselves in illegal activities. Lamenting that the number of liquor addicts are steadily increasing in the society, Mr Pai said, if the government and the society exhibits a strong will, a liquor-free society can be built.

Alva’s Education Foundation President Dr Mohan Alva said through creating awareness, a healthy society can be realised, in order to ensure efficient use of human resource. Dharmasthala Rural Development Programme Executive Director Dr L H Manjunath conducted a discussion session on the problems faced during working towards a liquor-free society and solutions for the same.

Jana Jagriti Vedike district president Vasanth Salian provided a birds eye view of the achievements of the Vedike.

Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade presiding over the programme said in order to make the youth aware about a necessity of keeping away from bad habits, ‘Swasthya Sankalpa’ programme will be organised in schools and colleges in association with Jana Jagriti Vedike. The seven ill habits including liquor consumption has put a strain on relationships and degenerated level of moral standards. Through determination, patience, control over mind, brain and senses and indulging in religious activities, a satisfactory life can be led along with ensuring a peaceful and healthy society, he suggested.  He hoped that the programmes undertaken by Jana Jagriti Vedike will become a model for the world. 

Belthangady Taluk Panchayat President Harabe Tulsi Poojary, entrepreneur from Mumbai R H Hebballi and Janajagriti Vedike office-bearers were present on the dais. D A Rahiman, secretary K Mahaveer Ajri and Vivek Vincent Pais were also present.