Andhra Pradesh Child Rights Commission Takes Firm Stand Against Child Drug Abuse in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam: The Andhra Pradesh State Child Rights Commission (APSCRC) has urged officials to take decisive action against the growing problem of drug abuse among children. In a meeting held on Saturday with officials from the district women and child welfare department, commission chairman Kesali Apparao and member Gondu Sitaram stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy.
Apparao and Sitaram emphasised the importance of collaboration across departments. They called for the development of a joint action plan that leverages the expertise of various agencies.
Officials from different departments discussed existing drug control programmes and explored additional control measures. Suggestions included installing CCTV cameras in medical shops and liquor stores to deter illegal activity.
Recognising the state's advanced technology and resources in drug control, the commission inquired about ongoing efforts to utilise them. The discussion highlighted the state government's commitment to tackling this issue.
A committee of state ministers has been formed to devise a concrete control strategy within the next 100 days.To effectively combat drug abuse, officials proposed several measures.
These include: Appointing psychologists in schools, colleges, rehabilitation centers, and hostels to provide support and early intervention.Establishing additional special counseling centers, rehabilitation centers, and de-addiction centers to offer treatment and recovery options.Implementing widespread awareness programs to educate children and communities about the dangers of drug use.Strengthening collaboration between the railway department and government railway police to target drug suppliers operating near railway stations.Issuing strict regulations from drug control authorities to prohibit the sale of intoxicating substances to minors.
The APSCRC also proposed a public awareness campaign utilising documentaries to showcase the devastating impact of drug use on children's lives. Apparao and Sitaram emphasized that these review meetings will be conducted statewide. By coordinating with government departments, the APSCRC aims to achieve positive outcomes and safeguard children from the perils of drug abuse.
