On 31 June 2026, B. Srinivasa Rao, State Project Director of Samagra Shiksha, highlighted the urgent need for a collective effort to stop drug abuse among students.
Key Developments
- The three‑day State‑level workshop on the ‘Drugs Vaddu Bro’ initiative was organized by the Department of School Education.
- Rao urged that the proposed handbook on drug‑abuse prevention be designed as an innovative, interactive tool rather than a conventional textbook.
- Age‑appropriate IEC material should be created for different student groups.
- Digital platforms were recommended to spread awareness, complemented by classroom sessions, skits, parent meetings and other interactive programmes.
- Stakeholders from the School Education Department, Health Department, Police, SCERT, SIEMAT and other agencies participated, underscoring a multi‑sectoral approach.
Important Facts
Rao noted that today’s children grow up in a “vastly different social, educational and digital environment” compared with previous generations. He stressed that education must go beyond academics to include life‑skills, emotional regulation and decision‑making abilities. The workshop was attended by senior officials such as D. Madhusudana Rao (Planning wing Director) and V. Vijaya Durga (Programming Coordinator and Nodal Officer), along with representatives from the School Education Department and the State Institute of Educational Management and Training (SIEMAT).
Exam Relevance
The discussion touches on several GS topics. The role of Samagra Shiksha illustrates central‑state cooperation in education policy (GS2). The emphasis on IEC tools and digital media reflects modern governance and public‑health communication strategies. The multi‑agency involvement showcases the “whole‑of‑government” approach, a recurring theme in GS3 and GS4.
Way Forward
- Design the handbook as an interactive, student‑centred resource with graphics, case studies and digital links.
- Develop IEC kits tailored for primary, middle and secondary students, ensuring language and cultural relevance.
- Leverage school‑based digital platforms and social media to run regular awareness campaigns.
- Institutionalise periodic training for teachers and parents on emotional‑health and life‑skill development.
- Establish a monitoring mechanism involving the School Education Department, Health Department and Police to track progress and address emerging drug‑related challenges.
By integrating these steps, the state aims to create a safe, drug‑free learning environment that equips children with the skills needed for holistic development.