Shimla: Governor Kavinder Gupta said the children must be educated about the harmful effects of substance abuse from an early age and called upon society to wage a collective mission against drugs to safeguard the future of the younger generation.
He was addressing the inaugural session of “Elevate– Experience the Real High, A Step Towards Drug-Free Himachal”, organized today by the Anuvrat Vishwa Bharati Society at Lok Bhavan. The event marked the launch of the Society’s statewide anti-drug awareness campaign in Himachal Pradesh, which will subsequently be carried to different districts.
Representatives, educationists, social workers and youth from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan and other parts of the country participated in the programme.
The Governor described the initiative as a significant step towards realizing the vision of a Drug-Free India. He said the campaign represents a national resolve to build an India free from the shackles of addiction, where young people achieve success through their talent, determination and hard work rather than falling prey to substance abuse.
Explaining the significance of the campaign’s title, Shri Gupta said that the word “Elevate” symbolizes rising higher, but true elevation lies in living a healthy, purposeful and service-oriented life. He expressed happiness that the initiative was being developed into a nationwide people’s movement to inspire youth to choose a meaningful and disciplined way of life.
The Governor said that if the ideas and objectives of the campaign are implemented effectively at the grassroots level, Himachal Pradesh could make remarkable progress towards becoming a drug-free State. He emphasized that the youth were the nation’s greatest asset, and protecting them from the menace of drugs is a shared responsibility of every section of society.
He said teachers particularly had an important role to play in shaping young minds. If educators regularly counsel students and guide them properly, they could be prevented from drifting towards addiction.
The Governor observed that India was moving towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, and safeguarding the country’s youth from drugs is essential for achieving that vision. He urged every citizen to stand shoulder to shoulder in the fight against substance abuse and contribute towards fulfilling the national resolve of Nasha Mukt Bharat.
Expressing concern over changing social structures, Shri Gupta said that the rise of nuclear families have reduced the guidance once provided by elders, leading to increasing loneliness, stress, depression and vulnerability among young people. He stressed that stronger family bonds, open communication and emotional support are essential to address these challenges effectively.
Referring to Himachal Pradesh as Dev Bhoomi, the Governor said that even this sacred land was not untouched by the growing menace of drugs. He expressed confidence that when youth would remain free from addiction, they would contribute significantly towards making the State stronger, healthier and more prosperous.
He honoured individuals for their outstanding contribution towards creating awareness against drug abuse and released a booklet on drug awareness.
Delivering the keynote address, Director of NIT Jalandhar and Additional Director of NIT Srinagar, Prof. Vinod Kumar Kanojia, described Himachal Pradesh as a symbol of India’s spiritual consciousness, natural grandeur and simplicity. He said the towering mountains of the State inspire people to think higher and strive for excellence. He also highlighted the growing need to create awareness among youth about the harmful effects of excessive mobile phone usage.
Earlier, National Outreach Head of Elevate Sanyog Dutt Sharma, welcomed the Governor. Vidya Bharati Himachal Pradesh Sangathan Mantri Gyan Kumar spoke on the harmful effects of drug abuse, while eminent social worker Gopal Kishan emphasized the need to strengthen public awareness campaigns for a Drug-Free India. Member of the Anuvrat Vishwa Bharati Society, Manish Sharma proposed the vote of thanks.
Secretary to the Governor Sandeep Bhardwaj, students from various schools, representatives of educational institutions, social organizations and other distinguished guests were also present on the occasion.
