Govt asks industry for alcohol, drug-free workplace policy

CHENNAI: The government on Thursday asked the industry to come forward with an alcohol- and drug-free workplace policy for youngsters by providing exposure to practice of yoga and meditation.

At a workshop on "Addressing Alcohol and Drug related issues of the Industries and Micro Credit groups" here, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan had asked the industry for a alcohol- and drug-free workplace.

She said the youngsters, who were now getting huge pay packs due to rapid industrial growth and economic boom, were getting more addicted to alcohol.

The sudden affluence coupled with increased stress at the workplace has led to more number of people taking to alcohol and drugs, she said.

The workshop would create awareness on the drawbacks of indulging in alcoholism and drug abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle among the youngsters, she said.

Asked by PTI whether she endorsed the PMK leader S Ramadoss demand for total prohibition in Tamil Nadu, she said "I do not want to make any comments on it".

She also parried questions on whether she agreed with Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss' stand that the film actors should refrain from drinking and smoking in films. "Each person has his own view point and I do not want to comment on it," she said.