Hyderabad: Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Friday called for the creation of drug-free campuses across the State and warned that substance abuse poses a serious threat to the nation’s future.
Addressing a state-level Drug Abuse Awareness Workshop organised by Bharat Scouts and Guides at Lok Bhavan, the Governor said governments, educational institutions, parents and civil society must work together to prevent addiction among young people.
He stressed that the goals of a “Viksit Bharat” and a “Viksit Telangana” could be achieved only when youth are guided by strong values and a sense of responsibility.
Drug-free campuses crucial for youth development
Shukla advocated the establishment of drug-free campuses throughout Telangana and welcomed the State Government’s decision to introduce anti-drug pledges in student admission forms from the current academic year.
According to the Governor, such initiatives would strengthen awareness among students and encourage responsible behaviour.
He also referred to the success of Himachal Pradesh’s “Nasha Mukt Himachal” campaign. Furthermore, he urged young people to stay away from narcotics and actively support efforts to build drug-free communities.
The Governor emphasised that preventing substance abuse required sustained awareness and community participation. Therefore, he called for stronger cooperation among all stakeholders.
Drug-free campuses need community support
Shukla urged parents and teachers to remain vigilant and identify early signs of addiction among children.
He said timely intervention could help prevent substance abuse and protect young people from long-term harm. Moreover, he stressed the importance of guidance and counselling in addressing the issue.
Senior officials, educators and hundreds of students attended the workshop and participated in discussions on drug abuse prevention.
Speaking at the event, Special Chief Secretary to the Governor Dana Kishore said Governor Shukla had given special priority to campaigns aimed at creating a TB-Free Telangana and a Drug-Free Telangana soon after assuming office.
He said efforts were underway to expand membership in the Indian Red Cross Society. In addition, nearly 5,000 new members had joined initiatives focused on tuberculosis eradication and drug abuse prevention.
Dana Kishore said these campaigns aimed to strengthen public participation and promote healthier communities across Telangana.