An awareness programme on the theme “Drug-Free Youth – Developed India” was grandly organised on Friday at Sri Ramakrishna Degree College, Nandyal, under the auspices of the college management.

The Chief Guest for the programme was Smt. Susmitha, IPS Officer, Nandyal. College Director Dr. G. Hemanth Reddy, Principal K. V. B. Subbaiah, Smt. Sravani Kumari, Sri Madhav Reddy, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students participated in the programme.

The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, in which the Chief Guest, faculty members and students participated. Later, the students delivered speeches on the theme “Developed India.”

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Smt. Susmitha, IPS Officer, stated that the youth are the main foundation of the nation. She advised students to make the best use of every opportunity available to them and build a bright future. She encouraged them to understand what is beneficial and what is harmful and to create awareness among others as well.

She explained that the main objective of the programme was to create awareness among young people about staying away from drugs and about helping those who are already facing problems related to substance abuse. She stated that two important measures are necessary to build a drug-free youth population: controlling the supply of drugs and reducing the demand for them.

She stated that effective measures through the NDPS Act and the government machinery are necessary to control the supply of drugs. She explained that if the demand for drugs is completely reduced, their supply will also gradually decrease.

She also explained the dangers associated with narco-terrorism and cannabis use. She stated that strict legal action could be taken against those involved in illegal drug-related activities. She encouraged students to help their friends and family members who are facing problems related to substance abuse and support them in overcoming those problems.

She warned that peer influence, films and modern technology can sometimes expose young people to harmful habits. Therefore, she advised students to create awareness among their friends and family members and encourage them to stay away from drugs.

College Principal K. V. B. Subbaiah stated that Indian youth should stay away from drugs and understand their harmful effects. He advised students to think about their future and move forward as responsible members of society. He stated that the Government of India is conducting such programmes with the objective of building a healthy and responsible youth population.

He said that the youth are the driving force behind the development of the nation and that they should demonstrate their talent in all fields, including education, economics and industry. He called upon the youth to contribute towards the goal of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047, when the country completes 100 years of independence.

College Director Dr. G. Hemanth Reddy delivered a strong message to the students, advising them not to use drugs. He warned them not to believe statements such as “Nothing will happen if you try it just once.” He explained that even a single experiment could gradually develop into a harmful habit and eventually lead to addiction.

He encouraged students to confidently say “No” when anyone tries to persuade them to consume drugs. He stated that by staying away from such harmful habits, students can move towards a better future and lead a happy and healthy life.

Smt. Sravani Kumari stated that students should demonstrate their talent not only in academics but also in other fields. She said that the country can progress only when young people achieve development in various fields. She noted that India has a large young population and that, with determination and hard work, the youth can achieve great success.

She emphasised that creating awareness through such programmes and shaping young people into responsible citizens is very important.

Sri Madhav Reddy expressed his happiness over the organisation of such an important programme at the college. He stated that drugs not only affect a person’s health but also their dreams and future. Drug abuse can also have a negative impact on families, friends and society, he said.

Therefore, he advised the youth to stay away from drugs, build a better future and act responsibly in society. He appreciated the efforts of the government to increase awareness and responsibility among young people through such programmes.

The college management felicitated Smt. Susmitha, IPS Officer, Nandyal, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest.

Subsequently, all the students who participated in the programme were administered a pledge to stay away from drugs and contribute their part towards building a drug-free society.

The programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.