New Delhi, June 26 (IANS): Saying terrorism, smuggling and drug activities were linked, President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday said unless the common thread was broken, it would be very difficult to fight all three.

Alcoholism and substance abuse have caused havoc in the social life of India and across the world, the president said while presenting National Awards for outstanding service on the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking here.

He told the award winners not to remain complacent and to continue with their efforts to eradicate the twin menace.

Mukherjee complimented the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for its initiatives vis-a-vis the problem and stressed the need for civil society and NGOs to work closely with the government in eradicating the menace.

Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawar Chand Gehlot and many others were present on the occasion.