Sports Over Drugs: Tirupati Rallies Youth Behind Drug-Free Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati District Collector Dr S. Venkateshwar said on Friday that sports can be a powerful force in steering young people away from drug abuse while also helping talented athletes from rural and government educational institutions reach bigger sporting platforms.

Speaking at a major anti-drug awareness programme in the city, the Collector said the Amaravati Championship was aimed at identifying sporting talent at the grassroots level and creating opportunities for promising athletes to advance to the state, national and international stages.

Dr Venkateshwar, along with Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) Chairman Animini Ravi Naidu and District SP L. Subbarayudu, flagged off an awareness rally from Tarakrama Stadium to the NTR statue. Athletes, students and officials marched under the message “Say No to Drugs, Embrace Sports”, highlighting the role of physical activity and organised sports in promoting a healthier lifestyle among young people.

SAAP Managing Director Bharani, additional SPs, hockey player Rajani, Amaravati Championship participants and students joined the rally in large numbers. The participants later took a pledge to stay away from narcotic substances.

The anti-drug campaign followed four days of sporting competitions held under the Amaravati Championship across 12 disciplines for athletes in the Under-17 and Under-23 categories. Competitions were initially conducted at constituency and district levels, with top performers progressing to state-level events in Tirupati.

According to the Collector, nearly 15,000 athletes, physical directors, PETs and office-bearers took part in the championship. The district administration also arranged accommodation and food facilities, while ensuring the competitions were conducted in a safe environment.

Calling upon young athletes to become ambassadors of the anti-drug campaign, Dr Venkateshwar said they should create awareness among fellow students and youth about the dangers of substance abuse. He said authorities were taking strict action against the illegal use and sale of drugs, including cases under the PD Act when warranted.

Meanwhile, a state-level National Sports Day programme will be held in Tirupati on August 29, with Assembly Speaker Ayyannapatrudu expected to attend as the chief guest. Medal winners of the Amaravati Championship will also be felicitated.

SAAP Chairman Animini Ravi Naidu said athletes should set an example for society by representing the values of discipline, fitness and healthy living.

SP L. Subbarayudu said police had intensified efforts to curb ganja use through a special mobile testing unit. Of nearly 12,000 people tested using rapid detection kits, 445 were found positive, he said. Cases have been registered, while counselling and awareness programmes are being provided where required. He urged people to report information related to drug use or illegal sales through the 1972 toll-free helpline.