Over 100 cyclists join ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ rally organised by Akshara Spoorthy Foundation in Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: Member of Parliament(Rajya Sabha) Dr. K. Laxman on Sunday called for coordinated efforts by governments, law enforcement agencies, parents, educational institutions and civil society to combat drug abuse and trafficking, stressing the need to protect young people from substance abuse.
He was speaking at the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ cycling rally organised by the Akshara Spoorthy Foundation in Hyderabad. More than 100 cyclists participated in the 8-km rally, which began at Sundarayya Park in Bagh Lingampally at 7 a.m., passed through Ramnagar Gundu and concluded at the Swami Vivekananda statue in Ashok Nagar at 9.00 a.m.
Referring to the national effort led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the target announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate drug abuse and drug trafficking by December 31, 2029, Dr. Laxman urged citizens to contribute to the nationwide campaign.He said public awareness, effective enforcement and active community participation were essential to addressing the problem.
He cautioned that substance abuse among young people could harm their health, disrupt family life and place emotional and financial burdens on parents. He called for better coordination among the Central and State governments, enforcement agencies and community organisations to strengthen prevention and curb trafficking.
Parents urged to remain vigilant
Dr. Laxman urged parents to remain attentive to their children’s activities, friendships and surroundings, particularly when they travel to educational institutions or spend time in parks and playgrounds. He also called for greater awareness among college students, IT professionals and other young people, encouraging them to make informed choices and seek help when necessary.
Acknowledging the role of Telangana’s EAGLE Force (Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement), he stressed the importance of sustained coordination among enforcement agencies. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities and said prevention efforts should cover rural as well as urban areas.
Weekly cycling rides to continue
Dr. Laxman said he had been organising weekly cycling rides over the past three months to promote physical fitness and raise awareness about drug abuse. The initiative would continue across Hyderabad, with upcoming rides planned in localities including Jubilee Hills. He encouraged more citizens to participate in the rides, which cover approximately 5-10 km.
Akshara Spoorthy Foundation chairman Rahul Kova, EAGLE Force Inspector of Police P. Srinivasa Rao, Gundagoni Bharath Goud, Rameshram Mallempeta, Poosa Raju, Ravi Chary, A. Vinay Kumar, Sai Chand, Ranganath Goud and Srikanth Renikunta were among those who participated in the rally, along with cycling enthusiasts and other citizens.
The rally highlighted the role of public participation in promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing substance abuse, with a call for collective efforts towards a drug-free India.
