Introduction:  Substance abuse is a global problem that is influenced by social, economic, political and psychosocial factors. Adolescence is the critical period when the first initiation of substance abuse takes place [1]. Physical activity has a positive effect on reducing drug craving in individuals with substance use disorders [13].

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted by selecting school going students of classes 10th, 11th and 12th standard of a higher secondary school in a rural area. 125 students were selected using stratified random sampling technique and data analysed using Jamovi software. 

Result: Prevalence of students who engage in outdoor games was found to be 61.6% and those indulge in substance use was found to be 10.4%.  Males are doing exercises and outdoor games more than females and it was found to be statistically significant (P<0.001, Odds ratio=6.79). Substance use was also seen more in males than in females which was also statistically significant (P=0.002, Odds ratio=8.19). A significant positive correlation was obtained between days per doing physical activity and substance use (r=0.227, P =0.011).

Conclusion: Students who are doing physical activity a greater number of days in a week are more indulge in using substances and use of substances are there in females also even though the number is less. Measures need to be taken by the authorities to address this situation and students of this age need to be strictly monitored during the time of non-academic activities.