Hyderabad: Director General of Police C.V. Anand launched Anti-Drug Awareness Week at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) in Banjara Hills and called for a united effort to combat drug abuse and trafficking.
The Hyderabad Police Commissionerate organised the programme ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026.
Addressing officials and students, Anand said the fight against drugs is not merely a policing issue but a responsibility shared by society.
He said he had directed every police officer, from the Home Guard level to the DGP, to remain committed to the anti-drug campaign.
Rising drug consumption raises concern
The DGP said Telangana had earlier served mainly as a transit point for drug trafficking.
However, he noted that drug consumption has increased in both urban and rural areas in recent years.
He expressed concern that traffickers are increasingly targeting children and youth.
Anand alleged that traffickers sometimes mix narcotic substances with products such as chocolates and biscuits to attract young users.
He described drug trafficking and abuse as a serious threat to society.
The DGP said reducing demand is essential to curbing the supply of narcotics.
He noted that police personnel, students and officials took an oath to support efforts aimed at eliminating drug abuse.
Meanwhile, Anand said the EAGLE Force is actively pursuing anti-drug operations across the state.
Schools asked to establish anti-drug safety clubs
The DGP said police are coordinating with the School Education Department, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Enforcement Directorate and Customs authorities.
He added that the Education Department must establish Anti-Drug Safety Clubs in educational institutions.
According to Anand, authorities may take action against institutions that fail to comply.
The DGP also appealed to parents to closely monitor their children and remain alert to signs of substance abuse.
Further, he urged families and communities to support rehabilitation efforts through de-addiction centres.
Anand said protecting young people from drug addiction is essential for the future of the state and the nation.
He reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement agencies to building a drug-free Telangana.