Building a Drug-Free Telangana: Leaders Call for Collective Community Action
On the International Day Against Drug Abuse, Hyderabad officials and celebrities advocated for a collective approach to creating a drug-free Telangana. The government continues to utilize the EAGLE task force to combine strict enforcement with youth counseling and community-wide public awareness initiatives.
Highlights
- •Officials emphasized a collective responsibility for achieving a drug-free Telangana at a recent awareness program.
- •The state government is prioritizing a combination of strict legal enforcement and widespread public education.
- •In 2024, 822 students were linked to drug cases, with 600 receiving necessary counseling services.
- •Public figures and athletes urged the youth to focus on discipline and health rather than narcotics.
On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, officials and public figures in Hyderabad emphasized that achieving a drug-free Telangana is a collective mission requiring participation from all segments of society. The event, held at Shilpakala Vedika, was organized by the Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE) in coordination with the department of social justice and empowerment to bolster public awareness.
Prominent figures in attendance included Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, minister Ponnam Prabhakar, DGP C.V. Anand, EAGLE director Sandeep Shandilya, principal secretary Anita Ramachandran, and Cyberabad police commissioner Dr. M. Ramesh. They were joined by noted personalities such as actor Ram Pothineni, actress Meenakshi Chaudhary, and international gymnast Aruna Budda Reddy, alongside students and police officers.
Government Strategy for a Drug-Free Telangana
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka outlined the state government's multifaceted approach under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The administration is prioritizing a combination of rigorous legal enforcement and proactive public education to curb the prevalence of narcotics. The establishment of EAGLE stands as a testament to the government's resolve to dismantle entrenched drug supply chains and provide a safer environment for the youth.
However, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that statutory measures alone are insufficient to combat the issue. He advocated for a shift in societal mindset, urging parents, educators, and public representatives to take an active role in monitoring and guiding young people. He specifically called on film industry icons to utilize their influence by creating positive anti-drug content to sway youth away from substance abuse.
The Role of Awareness and Rehabilitation
Director Sandeep Shandilya of EAGLE provided insights into the ongoing efforts of the organization. Throughout the year, the agency has prioritized comprehensive awareness campaigns across Telangana. Data from 2024 indicated that 822 students were identified in connection with drug-related activities, with approximately 600 of these individuals undergoing successful counseling sessions. Shandilya emphasized that sustainable success in reaching a drug-free Telangana relies equally on enforcement, professional rehabilitation, and consistent community support.
The event concluded with a strong appeal from guests Ram Pothineni, Meenakshi Chaudhary, and Aruna Budda Reddy, who encouraged the younger generation to prioritize discipline, physical fitness, and professional dedication over destructive habits. Following the distribution of awards for winners of various anti-drug competitions, all attendees committed themselves to a collective pledge to foster a healthier and cleaner society.
