AP Govt Intensifies Efforts for a Drug-Free State: Focus on Technology to Tackle Cannabis

*Amaravati – October 4, 2024*The Andhra Pradesh government, led by the Alliance Government, is ramping up its efforts to combat drug and cannabis abuse, with a strong focus on using technology to track and control illegal activities. In the second meeting of the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Narcotics Control, Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh urged top officials to take swift and drastic measures to curtail the spread of ganja (cannabis) and other narcotic substances in the state.Speaking at the meeting, which was also attended by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita, Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra, Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav, and DGP Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, Lokesh highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “We will lose a generation if we don’t take drastic measures.” He emphasized the importance of a door-to-door awareness campaign to educate the public about the harmful effects of ganja.The meeting also included discussions on the procedures for the **AP Anti-Narcotics Task Force**, which will spearhead these efforts. The state government plans to introduce AI-driven technology to enhance surveillance and ensure stricter enforcement. Minister Lokesh stressed the need for visible and invisible policing, coordination with neighboring states to prevent the cross-border inflow of drugs, and learning from the best practices implemented in other regions.Additionally, the government aims to involve women police officers, along with village and ward secretariat staff, in the fight against narcotics. Special initiatives will be introduced in schools and colleges, with plans to screen awareness videos for students from KG to PG. Lokesh shared personal experiences from his **Yuvagalam padayatra**, recalling how women in Mangalagiri had raised concerns about the rise of ganja supply in their areas.The Minister also revealed that celebrities will be brought on board to help spread awareness about the dangers of drugs, ensuring a wider reach across the state.

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