Eluru officials told to educate students on drug abuse

Eluru District Collector K. Vetriselvi asked the authorities to take stringent measures to prevent consumption and sale of marijuana, drugs and other narcotic substances.

Presiding over the District Narcotics Prevention Committee meeting on Friday, he said creating a drug-free Eluru district requires concerted efforts from all sections of the society. He said people who possess, consume or transport narcotics will face criminal charges, lose eligibility for government jobs and passports and carry a permanent criminal record.

Ms. Selvi instructed the authorities to intensify awareness campaigns in schools and colleges by putting up posters and holding counseling sessions to educate students about the ill-effects of drug abuse. He called on young people not to get addicted to drugs.

Citizens were asked to report incidents of drug use or peddling in educational institutions by calling the toll-free number 1972, ensuring that the identities of the informants would be kept confidential. He added that drug addicts will receive treatment in addiction fighting centers.

Additional SP Nakka Suryachandra Rao, District Medical and Health Officer Dr. attended the meeting. PJ Amrutham, District Education Officer M. Venkatalakshmamma, Agriculture JD Sheikh Habeeb Basha, Excise Inspector A. Awulayya and several other department heads attended.