Hyderabad: The Society for Cyberabad Security Council launched Suraksha Kavach, a handbook and awareness initiative aimed at promoting safety and well-being among college women.
The “Suraksha Kavach – College Women Safety & Well-being Handbook” focuses on youth safety, mental wellness, anti-drug awareness and responsible campus culture through student-led safety clubs.
Senior police officials, educationists, mental health experts, civil society representatives and students attended the programme in Hyderabad.
Cyberabad Police Commissioner Dr M. Ramesh stressed the importance of emotional well-being, open communication and disciplined lifestyles in addressing stress, isolation and substance abuse among youth.
He reiterated the police department’s commitment to strict action against drug networks and urged students to seek support from mentors, families and authorities.
Suraksha Kavach focuses on anti-drug awareness
During the interaction session, Biochemistry faculty member Varalaxmi said awareness programmes alone were insufficient and called for more discussion forums.
Responding to her suggestion, the Commissioner encouraged students to openly discuss their problems with teachers, parents, friends and mentors.
Replying to a question from NALSAR University student Srivar on drug abuse, Dr M. Ramesh said narcotics destroyed individuals, families and society.
He said police were cracking down on drug peddlers, but support and information from students and the public remained essential to prevent crime.
Actor-director Rahul Ravindran spoke about addiction, peer pressure and unhealthy coping mechanisms. He urged students to pursue meaningful goals and positive motivations.
Rahul Ravindran also encouraged youth participation in initiatives such as Suraksha Kavach to help create safer campuses.
Suraksha Kavach promotes student safety clubs
Telangana Higher Education Council Chairman Prof Balakrista Reddy highlighted the role of educational institutions in ensuring student welfare.
He stressed the need for mental health support systems, anti-ragging measures and stronger campus safety mechanisms.
Vanita Datla, Chetana Kaasam and Srividya Reddy explained SCSC’s efforts towards youth protection through community-police collaboration.
Vyshali Sagar led an oath encouraging students to “Show up, Stand up, and Never remain silent.”
DCP Women and Child Safety Wing K. Srujana stressed the importance of implementing Anti-Drug Committee guidelines, strengthening student safety clubs and following POSH and POCSO norms in educational institutions.
Rashmi Srivastava later interacted with students and faculty members to gather suggestions for implementing safety and wellness clubs across campuses.
The event concluded with an interactive singing session by the youth group “Paatshaala”, followed by renditions of Vande Mataram and the National Anthem.