Hyderabad, October 1:
In a unique awareness campaign against drug abuse, Telangana Labour Minister Sri G. Vivek Venkataswamy inaugurated the "Say No to Drugs" one-lakh balloon display organized by Vasavi Clubs International at Secunderabad’s Gymkhana Ground. The Minister lauded the initiative, noting that the state government is implementing multiple strategies to curb drug consumption and safeguard youth from addiction.

Presiding over the event, Vasavi Clubs International President, Mr. Irukulla Ramakrishna, said the program was organized to mark Vasavi Clubs Foundation Day on October 1. He highlighted the alarming rise in drug use across Telangana, pointing out that reports indicate over 64,000 individuals are injecting harmful drugs and nearly 1.5 million are addicted to cannabis and similar substances. He stressed the need for continuous awareness campaigns to protect communities, especially the younger generation.

Established in 1961 by Late K.C. Gupta in Hyderabad, Vasavi Clubs has expanded globally with more than 2,000 clubs and over one lakh members engaged in social service. The organization has signed MoUs with national agencies to support differently-abled individuals, provide skill development programs for unemployed youth, and promote national integration through impactful initiatives like displaying a 3,600-foot-long national flag across cities in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

The highlight of the event was the release of one lakh colorful balloons by members and volunteers, symbolizing a united stand against drugs. Thousands of Vasavi Club members from the twin cities participated, making the campaign a grand success.