Awareness Programme on Cyber Scams, Narcotic Drugs, Road Safety and POSCO

Report by: Mrs. Violet Machado, Social communication commission coordinator

Date : 4th October, 2026

The Social Communication Commission of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Pernal, organized an awareness programme on Cyber Scams, Narcotic Drugs, Road Safety and POSCO on 4 October 2026 at Our Lady of Fatima Church Hall.

The programme was organized with the aim of creating awareness among parishioners about important social issues and helping them understand the precautions necessary to protect themselves, their families and especially the younger generation.

Mr. Manjunath Adiga, Head Constable, Shirva Police Station, gave a very informative and valuable awareness talk on POSCO, Road Safety, Cyber Scams and Narcotic Drugs. He explained in detail what cyber scams are, how people become victims of online fraud and how such scams can be prevented. He particularly advised everyone never to share OTPs, passwords, bank details or other confidential information with anyone. He also cautioned the participants not to open unknown or suspicious links received through SMS, WhatsApp, email or other social media platforms, as such links may be used by fraudsters to steal personal or financial information.

Mr. Manjunath Adiga also explained the harmful effects of narcotic drugs on youth. He highlighted how drug addiction can seriously affect a person’s physical and mental health, education, family relationships, future, financial condition and overall life. He encouraged parents, young people and the community to remain alert and to prevent youngsters from falling into the trap of drug abuse. He emphasized the importance of making responsible choices and seeking help when necessary.

He also spoke about POSCO and child safety, explaining the importance of protecting children from abuse and creating a safe environment where children can speak openly about any uncomfortable or unsafe situation. Regarding road safety, he reminded everyone about the importance of following traffic rules and being responsible road users.

Along with Mr. Manjunath Adiga, Mr. Nagaraj, Mr. Bhaskar and Mr. Dharmendra were present at the programme. Mr. Nagaraj and Mr. Dharmendra also explained the dangers of excessive mobile phone usage, particularly among young people, and highlighted how overuse of mobile phones can negatively affect daily life and well-being.

Our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Gonsalves, delivered a short and meaningful message on the importance of the programme. He encouraged the parishioners to take the information seriously and to create greater awareness within their families and the wider community.Mrs. Jyothi Aranha, Pastoral Commission Coordinator, was also present and supported the programme.Around 50 parishioners participated in the awareness programme. The programme began with a prayer song by the Koyar Group. Mr. Violet Machado delivered the welcome and served as the Master of Ceremonies. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mrs. Marina Lobo.

The awareness programme was highly informative and beneficial to the participants. It helped create awareness about cyber scams and online safety, the importance of never sharing OTPs or opening suspicious links, the dangers of narcotic drugs, child protection under POSCO, road safety and the harmful effects of excessive mobile phone usage. The programme encouraged everyone to remain alert, responsible and proactive in protecting themselves, their families and society.
Photography by: Joswin Aranha