Fri Mar 14 03:24:42 UTC 2025: ## Andhra Pradesh Launches Aggressive Anti-Drug Campaign Targeting Students

**Vijayawada, March 14, 2025** – The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a comprehensive campaign to combat the rising issue of substance abuse among schoolchildren, fueled by increasing accessibility to drugs like ganja. The initiative, encompassing education, law enforcement, and mental health support, aims to create a drug-free environment in schools and colleges across the state.

The urgency of the situation is highlighted by the stories of young addicts like Sikandar, a 21-year-old who confessed to killing three people while under the influence of drugs and alcohol at age 16. Currently residing at a de-addiction center, Sikandar’s case exemplifies the devastating consequences of substance abuse. Other young people, as young as 10, are struggling with addiction, often introduced to drugs through peer pressure.

The government’s strategy involves several key components:

* **Increased Law Enforcement:** Ganja cultivation has been significantly reduced, with the area under cultivation decreasing from 11,000 acres to 100 acres. The Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been revamped into the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE), tasked with educating students about the dangers of drug use, including the scientific effects of THC on the brain. The stringent penalties under the NDPS Act are also emphasized.

* **Enhanced Education and Awareness:** EAGLE Clubs are being established in schools and colleges to promote awareness and a zero-tolerance culture towards drugs. Workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions integrated into the curriculum will educate students about the risks and legal consequences.

* **Expanded Mental Health Support:** The Samagra Shiksha wing has recruited 255 career and mental health counselors to provide comprehensive support to students, helping them cope with emotional struggles and navigate academic and social challenges. These counselors will receive training from leading institutions like NIMHANS and AIIMS.

Officials acknowledge the socio-economic factors contributing to the problem, emphasizing a “positive transformative approach” rather than solely focusing on punishment. The campaign underscores the need for parental involvement in helping children process their emotions and resist peer pressure. The availability of the Tele MANAS helpline (14416) is also highlighted for those seeking assistance. The multi-pronged approach aims to prevent future addiction, provide support for current users, and ultimately create a healthier future for Andhra Pradesh’s youth.

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