Rahul · September 5, 2025 
New Delhi, September 3, 2025 – The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to combat substance abuse and create a drug-free environment in schools. The MoU was formalized at CBSE Headquarters, Dwarka, New Delhi, with senior officials from both organizations attending the ceremony.
MoU Signing Ceremony
The MoU was signed by Anurag Garg, IPS, Director General of NCB, and Shri Rahul Singh, IAS, Chairperson of CBSE, in the presence of Shri Himanshu Gupta, IAS, Secretary of CBSE, along with other senior officers from both organizations.
Consequently, the collaboration will strengthen awareness campaigns, counseling initiatives, and preventive education across CBSE-affiliated schools.
Officials Highlight Importance of Early Prevention
NCB Director General Anurag Garg emphasized that educational institutions play a critical role in tackling drug abuse early. Therefore, NCB will conduct awareness drives, workshops, and counseling programs for students, parents, and teachers.
CBSE Chairperson Shri Rahul Singh highlighted the board’s responsibility to safeguard students’ overall well-being. In addition, he stressed the importance of equipping schools with knowledge and resources to prevent substance abuse.
CBSE Secretary Shri Himanshu Gupta noted that schools must create safe and supportive environments alongside academics. For instance, government initiatives like Tele-MANAS, which expand mental health care access nationwide, can strengthen preventive measures.
Key Joint Initiatives under the MoU
The MoU outlines several joint initiatives, including:
Quarterly awareness programs
Training sessions for teachers and counselors
E-modules on drug prevention
Specialized counseling services
Furthermore, a pilot project will begin in 100 CBSE schools, using a hub-and-spoke model to extend outreach effectively.
Awareness Program on Prevention of Substance Abuse
Following the signing ceremony, CBSE and NCB organized an Awareness Program on Prevention of Substance Abuse. The program brought together over 500 principals, wellness teachers, and counselors from CBSE schools across India.
Expert-Led Sessions
“Leadership for Empowering the School Ecosystem” by Shri Ashutosh Agnihotri, IAS, Chairman and MD of FCI. He explained how educators can build resilience and prepare students to overcome social challenges.
“Refuse the First Dose, Secure the Future” by Dr. Anees C., IRS, Deputy Director, NCB. He discussed preventive strategies, peer support systems, and the vital role of families and communities in raising drug-free youth.
Additionally, the interactive session allowed principals and counselors to share school-level challenges and gain practical strategies for implementing drug-prevention initiatives effectively.
Vision and Expected Impact
This collaboration demonstrates CBSE and NCB’s shared vision to create a safe, healthy, and supportive school ecosystem. By raising awareness and providing essential life skills, the initiative aims to reduce students’ vulnerability to substance abuse. Moreover, it encourages positive decision-making, leading to a brighter future.
Source: CBSE Official Press Release
