Mon Feb 03 19:52:20 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Launches AI-Powered Chatbot to Combat Student Drug Abuse

**Hyderabad, February 4, 2025** – Telangana has launched MITRA-TG, an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot designed to help identify and prevent substance abuse among students. Developed by the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGANB) in collaboration with the Education and IT Departments, the multilingual chatbot allows parents and teachers to confidentially assess students’ risk of drug use.

The initiative, launched last December, received a boost today with a training program for 163 educators, including District and Mandal Education Officers and private school representatives. The training covered substance abuse awareness and the practical use of the MITRA-TG app. Experts highlighted the importance of early intervention and the app’s features for risk assessment.

Officials emphasized the crucial role of technology and community participation in combating drug abuse. The TGANB highlighted the need for an addiction-free lifestyle, promoted through regular school activities. The initiative has been lauded by the Government of India and is set for statewide rollout across all schools in Telangana.

Parents and teachers are encouraged to utilize MITRA-TG and maintain open communication with students. The TGANB also urged the public to report drug-related concerns via their toll-free helpline (1908), control room (8712671111), or email (tsnabho-hyd@tspolice.gov.in). All reports are confidential. Authorities aim to make Telangana a model state in the fight against drug abuse.

Read More