Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay flagged off the "Start Run, Stop Drugs" anti drug awareness marathon at Chennai's Marina Beach on Friday, marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. In a first for a sitting Chief Minister of the State, Vijay ran the entire 6 km route alongside participants, reinforcing the government's commitment to promoting a drug free Tamil Nadu through active public engagement.

The marathon was organised by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) and witnessed the participation of Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, senior IAS and IPS officers, government officials, sportspersons, students, youth, NCC cadets, volunteers and thousands of members of the public.

Before flagging off the marathon, the Chief Minister administered an anti drug pledge, urging participants to stay away from narcotics, create awareness among family and friends about the harmful effects of drug abuse and support those working towards recovery. He also signed the campaign commitment board with the message, "Sports Edu, Drugs Vidu," encouraging young people to embrace sports as a positive way of life.

The awareness initiative formed part of a statewide campaign, with similar anti drug runs and mini marathons organised across districts in Tamil Nadu. The event highlighted the government's focus on youth empowerment, healthy living and collective efforts to eliminate substance abuse from society.

As destinations increasingly promote wellness tourism and responsible travel, initiatives that encourage healthy living and community participation align closely with the hospitality industry's vision of creating safer, healthier, and more welcoming environments for guests and local communities. The anti drug awareness marathon led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay reflects the growing emphasis on public wellness, with sports and fitness serving as powerful tools to inspire positive social change.