Shimla: Governor Kavinder Gupta today launched the ‘Sankalp Rath Yatra’, an anti-drug awareness campaign organised by Utishtha Bharat Sewa Trust at Kasauli in Solan district, today.
Describing the initiative as an important social message and a collective resolve to protect children, families and society from drug abuse, the Governor said that Kasauli, known for its natural beauty, peaceful environment and military heritage, should be recognised for tourism and not for drugs. He stressed the need for greater vigilance in tourist and border-connected areas so that drug trafficking does not affect the younger generation and the social identity of the region.
The Governor said the response to drug abuse must combine firm action against traffickers and organised crime along with treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration of those affected by addiction. He said drug trafficking could also have links with organised crime and in some cases, cross-border networks, making it a matter of internal security and national interest. While acknowledging the efforts of police, security forces, administration and investigative agencies, he said government action alone could not address the challenge and that effective results required active participation of society.
The Governor appreciated Utishtha Bharat Sewa Trust for taking the message of drug prevention to people through the Sankalp Rath Yatra and called upon religious and spiritual organisations, women’s groups, youth organisations, educational institutions and civil society to join the campaign.
