Superintendent of Police Amit Bardar, along with other officials, views rangolis organised by the district police at the Araku Valley Police Station in Alluri Sitharama Raju district on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu

In order to keep youth away from anti-social activities during the Sankranti festival, the Anakapalli district police took up a unique initiative. They organised sports competitions in various villages across the district on Wednesday.

Following the directions of Superintendent of Police, Tuhin Sinha, events were held at Madhavanagaram, Nathavaram and Gangavaram villages. The events included volleyball and cricket tournaments.

S.P Tuhin Sinha said that the main objective of the sports programme was to divert youth from getting involved in anti-social activities during the festive season and to promote discipline, sportsmanship and a sense of brotherhood. Narsipatnam Rural Inspector Revathamma, SI Y. Tarakeswara Rao and police personnel, with the cooperation of village elders, successfully conducted the tournaments.

Speaking on the occasion, the police urged people to celebrate festivals in a peaceful manner. They also advised youth to participate actively in sports to enhance their physical health and mental well-being. The locals and village heads appreciated the initiative and expressed happiness over visible policing.

Meanwhile, in Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district police organised rangoli competitions at the Araku Valley police station on Wednesday. Superintendent of Police, Amit Bardar, attended the programme as the chief guest. A large number of women from the mandal participated in the competitions. Prizes were awarded to the participants. During the event, District SP delighted everyone by performing the traditional Dhimsa dance. He later lit the Bhogi bonfire, marking the beginning of the Sankranti celebrations. Circle Inspector L. Himagiri and Sub-Inspector Gopal Rao were present at the event.

Published – January 14, 2026 08:49 pm IST