Telangana CM renames state's anti-drug unit as EAGLE

Hyderabad, Jun 26 (PTI) Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday announced that the state's Anti Narcotics Bureau (NAB) would henceforth be known as Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE), tasked with curbing the menace of narcotics.


Speaking at an event organised on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, he said EAGLE would detect and act against cultivation of ganja anywhere in the state and check the smuggling of narcotic substances into the state.


Telugu film actors Ram Charan and Vijay Devarakonda, badminton chief national coach Pullela Gopichand, state DGP Jitender and other dignitaries attended the event.


Highlighting the role of educational institutions in tackling drug abuse, the CM said schools and college managements have a duty to monitor student behaviour.

He warned that cases will be registered against institutions if narcotics are found on their premises.

He also directed that child psychology professionals be appointed in schools and colleges to help detect early signs of any behavourial changes among students.

He instructed the Chief Secretary and other senior officials to hold meetings with managements of schools and colleges to reinforce their responsibilities.


Telangana, known for people's struggles, cannot become a hub of narcotics, he added.

Referring to the drug problem in Punjab, Reddy said even the land of warriors is now struggling with the rampant menace of drugs.


"Vijay Devarakonda mentioned one thing. Those who feel we cannot face this country (India) if its economy grows furtther and it makes technological advancement, they try to hurt us somehow. Some may choose war to hurt us, some may choose COVID, some may choose ganja and drugs. Shall we accept the designs of enemy countries who want to weaken our country or face them boldly," Reddy said.


Praising Ram Charan (son of superstar Chiranjeevi) and Vijay Devarakonda for their hard work and dedication in the film industry, the Chief Minister said youth should be inspired by the real life story of the actors and not the roles they play in films.


Ram Charan and Vijay Devarakonda appealed to the audience, largely comprising youth, to work hard and lead a life of happiness and not fall prey to narcotics.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)