On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, EAGLE (Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement) organized a significant awareness programme at VIT-AP University today on Drug Abuse and youth empowerment, with Smt. Vangalapudi Anitha, Hon’ble Minister for Home Affairs and Disaster Management, Government of Andhra Pradesh, gracing the event as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering of students, faculty members, law enforcement officials, and dignitaries, the Hon’ble Minister emphasized the critical need to protect the younger generation from the menace of drug abuse. She stated that drug addiction is not merely a social issue but a serious threat to the future of the nation, as it destroys the potential, health, and aspirations of youth.
The Minister lauded the Government of Andhra Pradesh's determined efforts in combating narcotics and highlighted the state's remarkable achievement of Zero Cultivation of Ganja. She appreciated the relentless efforts of the Andhra Pradesh Police Department, particularly the EAGLE (Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement) teams, for their dedicated operations in eliminating illicit cultivation and trafficking networks across the state.
Smt. Anitha noted that the success of the Zero Ganja Cultivation initiative has become a model for others and expressed confidence that it would inspire a generation free from the influence of narcotic substances. She conveyed her gratitude to VIT-AP University for partnering with the government and law enforcement agencies in spreading awareness among young minds.
Speaking about the historical context of drug abuse, the Minister observed that the drug menace gained significant momentum globally during the 1980s and has since evolved into a major challenge affecting societies worldwide. She remarked that both conventional and unconventional forms of criminal networks continue to exploit vulnerable youth, jeopardizing not only individual lives but also the country's long-term development and security.
Highlighting one of the state's most significant achievements, the Minister stated that nearly 25,000 acres of illicit ganja cultivation spread across the Agency and Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) regions over the past three to four decades have been effectively eradicated through sustained enforcement measures.
She described the accomplishment as a historic milestone and credited the Andhra Pradesh Police and EAGLE teams for their unwavering commitment. "The generations to come will remain indebted to the police personnel and EAGLE teams who have worked tirelessly to eliminate the drug menace from our society," she said, adding that the government's achievements in anti-narcotics enforcement have also been acknowledged in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly.
The Minister urged students to become ambassadors of the anti-drug movement by creating awareness among their peers and communities. She emphasized that a drug-free society can only be achieved through collective efforts involving educational institutions, families, law enforcement agencies, and civil society.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Ake Ravi Krishna, IPS, Chief of EAGLE (Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement), highlighted the state's anti-narcotics efforts:"The achievement of Zero Ganja Cultivation in Andhra Pradesh is the result of sustained enforcement, intelligence-driven operations, and strong community participation.
Our mission extends beyond enforcement we aim to protect young lives, educate communities, and ensure that future generations remain free from the threat of narcotics." Welcoming the Hon'ble Minister and distinguished guests, Dr. P. Arulmozhivarman, Vice Chancellor, VIT-AP University, said: "Universities play a pivotal role in shaping not only skilled professionals but also responsible citizens.
At VIT-AP University, we are committed to creating awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and fostering a healthy, value-driven environment for our students. We are honored to partner with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and law enforcement agencies in this important social mission."
Speaking on the importance of public participation in the anti-drug movement, Sri Vakul Jindal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Guntur District, stated:"The fight against drugs cannot be won by law enforcement alone. Educational institutions, parents, students, and society at large must work together to identify, prevent, and eliminate drug abuse.
Awareness and vigilance are our strongest weapons in safeguarding the future of our youth." Sri Nagesh Babu, Superintendent of Police, EAGLE Cell, administered the Anti-Drug Pledge to the participants, reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free India and promoting a healthy, responsible lifestyle among the youth.
Smt.Swaroopa Rani Superintendent of Police, EAGLE Cell, Dr.Jagadish Chandra –Registrar VIT-AP University.Dr.Khadeer Pasha – Deputy Director Student welfare were also present on the occasion The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members, who pledged their commitment to building a healthier and drug-free future.
The event concluded with a collective pledge against drug abuse and a reaffirmation of the shared responsibility to safeguard future generations from the dangers of narcotics.