Home Minister sends anti-drug message over wireless, urges public to embrace ‘Operation Toofan’

A message against drug abuse travelled across wireless radio waves as Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala called upon the public to embrace ‘Operation Toofan’, an awareness campaign aimed at building a drug-free society.

His message was relayed at the conclusion of the State-level JOTA-JOTI 2026 international jamboree in Thrissur on Sunday.

The two-day event, organised by Bharat Scouts and Guides Kerala at Thrissur Town Hall, concluded on a high note, with thousands of students from different parts of the State participating in the international communication initiative.

Mr. Chennithala inaugurated the valedictory session and subsequently took to a wireless radio set to communicate live with nearby stations. Using the platform to reach out to students and the public, he highlighted the importance of collective action against drug abuse and urged citizens to make ‘Operation Toofan’ their own.

He also exhorted students to harness technology and modern communication tools for the welfare of society and the younger generation. The Minister’s live radio interaction proved an exciting and inspiring moment for the young participants.

The jamboree, organised under the theme of JOTA-JOTI (Jamboree on the Air–Jamboree on the Internet), offered Scouts an opportunity to connect with fellow members across geographical boundaries through amateur radio, wireless communication and Internet platforms.

Participants used ham radio to speak directly to people in various Indian States and overseas, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Internet-based communication also enabled them to interact with Scouts and local stations in countries such as Indonesia.

The initiative provided students with hands-on exposure to communication technologies while fostering international friendship, collaboration and a sense of global citizenship.