Hyderabad to host three-day anti-drug padayatra from November 25; Kishan Reddy calls for mass participation

Ahead of the campaign, Kishan Reddy held a preparatory meeting in Hyderabad with representatives of women's organisations and members of the Pravasi community. The discussions focused on encouraging public participation in the proposed padayatra and building a broader community movement against drug consumption and trafficking.

The Union Minister said the initiative was aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a drug-free India and Union Home Minister Amit Shah's commitment to combating narcotics-related activities. He reiterated the objective of making India drug-free by December 31, 2029, emphasising the importance of sustained public involvement in achieving the target.

The proposed padayatra seeks to bring together people from different sections of society to spread awareness about the harmful consequences of substance abuse. By involving women's organisations and community representatives, the campaign aims to strengthen grassroots participation and encourage families to play an active role in preventing drug addiction.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns about the availability and consumption of narcotic substances, particularly among young people. Hyderabad has witnessed increased attention to drug-related offences in recent years, with enforcement agencies undertaking investigations and awareness campaigns to address the problem.

Beyond law enforcement, public participation is considered an important component of efforts to prevent substance abuse. Awareness programmes involving educational institutions, parents, community organisations and civil society groups can help identify vulnerable individuals, encourage early intervention and promote access to rehabilitation services.

Kishan Reddy's outreach to women's organisations also highlights the role of families and community networks in addressing the social consequences of drug addiction. The participation of the Pravasi community is expected to broaden the campaign's reach and encourage collective responsibility towards the national objective.

The three-day programme is intended to generate wider public engagement around the Nasha Mukt Bharat mission and reinforce the message that preventing drug abuse requires coordinated efforts from government agencies, civil society and citizens.

Further details regarding the padayatra's routes, timings and participating organisations are expected to be announced ahead of the event.