The Bidar Nagarik Sanmarg Samiti (BNSS) and several civic organizations in the district have welcomed the steps announced in the state budget to tackle the growing problems of drug addiction and digital addiction.
In a statement on Saturday, Samiti President Abdul Khadeer lauded the state government for recognizing these issues as serious social and public health problems.
Noting that substance abuse and excessive digital use are increasingly affecting youth, students and families, he said a government initiative to address these issues has become necessary.
Organizations have expressed concern about the increasing availability and use of narcotic substances among young people, including synthetic drugs, which are said to be available even in smaller towns and rural areas. They also pointed to the rapid increase in digital addiction among children and teenagers due to excessive use of mobile phones, social media platforms and online gaming.
The organizations urged the state government to take strict action against the sale of narcotics and related illegal activities near schools, colleges and educational institutions. They also called for vigorous legal enforcement and extensive information campaigns to protect students.
Referring to a community survey conducted by college students in Bidar, which covered 825 households, the organizations said the findings indicated a worrying trend.
The survey showed that 80% of parents support legal restrictions on the use of social networks for children under 16, while 65% of children use mobile phones mainly for entertainment and gaming. Up to 48% of children are said to have limited outdoor activity and 42% have problems such as eye strain, headaches and sleep disturbances.
The survey also found that about 33% of families have no screen-free family interaction time per day.
The organizations stressed that protecting young people from drug abuse and excessive digital use is crucial to securing their future.
The samitis also appealed to the state government to launch a comprehensive anti-addiction campaign covering all districts.
Published – March 8, 2026 7:08 PM IST
