During the YCP regime Andhra Pradesh was turned into the Ganja and Drugs capital. Soon after formation of Chandrababu Naidu government, it has sent clear signals to put an end to this menace and formed a cabinet sub-committee headed by Home Minister V Anitha.
The sub-committee met for the first time on Thursday has decided to formulate a 100-day action plan to eradicate ganja cultivation and smuggling in the state. It has been decided to make the anti-narcotics task force system operational within 10 days under the supervision of an IG level officer at the state level and a new system at the district level.
They have decided to intensify efforts to support the tribals so that they do not turn to ganja cultivation. They deplored that tribal youth are involved in most of ganja smuggling activities and several of them are lagging in jails.
Realizing the fact that tribal youth are turning towards ganja in the absence of livelihood options, the ministers also discussed the alternatives to be taken to prevent ganja and provide employment to the tribals.
In the last five years, some leaders of the YSRCP have encouraged the cultivation of ganja instead of coffee, pepper, ginger and turmeric on the lands given to the tribals. The Cabinet Sub-Committee has decided to make the tribals understand that they should refrain from cultivation of ganja.
Home Minister Anita has sought the cooperation of the police at the field level to prevent the various processes that take place from the cultivation of ganja to its consumption.
Minister Sandhya Rani mentioned that many of the tribal youths are languishing in jails for years even if they get bail, as they cannot afford to provide adequate sureties. A proposal was made that it would be better if they were given guarantees through ITDAs and moved to rehabilitation centers. Minister Nara Lokesh has advised to take legal advice on this.
Minister Satyakumar mentioned the issue of inadequate infrastructure of doctors and counselors in ganja de-addiction centers and rehabilitation centers.