Andhrapradesh State, Parvathipuram – District Collector A. Shyam Prasad has urged the community to take strong action against the illegal use of ‘Natu Saaru’ (local illicit liquor) in a bid to protect families and safeguard the well-being of youth. His comments came during a district-level committee meeting on drug control held on Saturday at the Collector’s office.
Addressing the gathering, Collector Prasad emphasized that the consumption of illicit substances, especially Natu Saaru, was adversely affecting the health of young people in the region. “The youth are falling ill due to this harmful practice, and as their health deteriorates, it directly impacts their ability to work. Consequently, family finances are crumbling,” said Prasad. He highlighted that when a person’s health deteriorates, the medical costs rise, but even with extensive treatment, many individuals succumb to death, leaving families devastated.
The Collector further noted that the impact of such deaths was particularly severe on children, whose futures become uncertain due to the loss of a breadwinner. “We need to raise awareness in these families, guide them away from harmful practices like Natu Saaru, and take concrete steps to ensure sustainable livelihoods,” he added.
Prasad also emphasized the importance of stringent action against those involved in the trafficking, sale, and distribution of drugs. “We will implement strict measures to ensure that perpetrators face severe penalties. Additionally, stronger surveillance is needed to curb the illegal transportation of drugs through forests and other routes, including buses and other vehicles,” he said.
During the meeting, the Collector recommended launching awareness campaigns at the grassroots level, including in villages and educational institutions, to educate people on the harmful effects of drugs like marijuana and other substances. He also called for more stringent measures to prevent drug-related issues within educational institutions and ensure that youth are protected from the negative influences of substances.
“All departments must work together in a coordinated manner to prevent the illegal trafficking of drugs and substances in the region,” he urged.
The meeting was attended by key officials including District Superintendent of Police Madhav Reddy, Additional Superintendent of Police Ankitha Suraan, Deputy Superintendent of Police M. Rambabu, District Transport Officer T. Durga Prasad, District Drugs Control Officer Asha Shaikh, and other committee members and officials.
As the district moves forward with these measures, the aim is clear: to protect the future of families and youth by putting an end to illicit drug use and its devastating consequences.
