Hyderabad: Surprise raids, anti-drug clubs to stop substance abuse in schools, colleges

Hyderabad: City schools and colleges are now on high alert following cases of substance abuse uncovered among the youth in educational institutions.

This heightened vigilance comes after the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGANB) conducted surprise checks at reputed schools and colleges, leading to the discovery of drugs on campus. TGANB is conducting a training program at Dr Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute (Dr MCRHRDI), Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, from November 26 to 29.

In one such instance, the anti-narcotics squad found cocaine during a raid at a highly reputed college (name withheld by NewsMeter for confidentiality). Similar checks have revealed cases involving the usage of marijuana on school and college campuses, raising concerns about the growing influence of drugs on students.

Hyderabad: 20,989 high schools establish Prahari Clubs

In a bid to tackle drug abuse, 20,989 high schools in Telangana have established Prahari Clubs, while 4,729 Anti-Drug Committees (ADCs) have been formed in colleges and universities. These initiatives are part of the Telangana government’s broader strategy to combat drug abuse among youth. Efforts are underway to form ADCs in all remaining educational institutions.

Role of Prahari Clubs and ADCs

Prahari Clubs include school principals as presidents, senior teachers as vice presidents, and members such as students, parents and local police representatives. These clubs aim to create drug-free zones around schools and colleges.

“The formation of these clubs is a proactive step to ensure educational institutions are safe from the influence of drug abuse,” said a TGANB official.

Surprise checks by teachers and faculty

In addition to the efforts by the TGANB, teachers and faculty in schools and colleges have started conducting surprise checks to curb drug-related activities on campuses. These inspections serve both as preventive measures and as a way to sensitise students about the dangers of substance abuse.

“Surprise checks are critical in creating awareness and deterring students from engaging in drug-related activities,” said a senior teacher in Hyderabad who requested anonymity.

The training program at Dr MCRHRDI from November 26 to 29

As part of its awareness campaign, TGANB is conducting a training program at Dr Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute (Dr MCRHRDI), Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, from November 26 to 29. This program targets stakeholders from educational institutions, IT companies, NCC and NSS volunteers, and various other sectors.

The sessions focus on intervention strategies, awareness and rehabilitation to address the growing issue of substance abuse among youth.

“We are equipping teachers, students, and professionals with the tools to recognise and respond to drug-related issues,” said Hyderabad police commissioner Sandeep Sandilya.

Impact of past initiatives

Earlier, a similar training session at Dr. MCRHRDI in October saw participation from 940 individuals. So far, TGANB has organised 148 awareness programs, reaching 57,129 students. Additionally, the Law & Order Police conducted 590 programs, educating 68,120 students on the dangers of drug use.

“We need community-driven efforts to eliminate the drug menace. Citizens, especially youth, must understand the long-term consequences of substance abuse,” added commissioner Sandilya.

Students’ perspectives

Students who attended the awareness sessions appreciated the initiative.

“It helped me understand the risks of drug addiction and how to protect myself and my peers,” said one participant. Another added, “Programs like these bring much-needed attention to an often-ignored issue.”

Addressing low conviction rates

TGANB has identified low conviction rates in drug-related cases as a significant challenge. To counter this, the bureau has trained 21,246 personnel, including police and court duty officers, on handling NDPS cases under the New Criminal Laws (NCL) 2023.

Public cooperation sought

The public has been urged to report drug-related activities via the toll-free number 1908. “Drug abuse is not just a law enforcement issue—it’s a societal problem. We need everyone’s cooperation to protect the youth and create a safer environment,” said Sandilya.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has reiterated the state’s resolve to make Telangana drug-free: “Eradicating the drug menace is our top priority. With collective efforts, we aim to free every individual from the clutches of addiction and ensure a brighter future for Telangana.”

The State government has allocated resources for awareness and training programs, which will continue until its vision of a drug-free Telangana is achieved.