Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): The Drug-Free Himachal Campaign received a major boost as Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta launched the statewide anti-drug initiative in Shimla. Addressing a gathering at Lok Bhavan, the Governor urged every section of society to unite and work in mission mode to eliminate drug abuse and protect the future of the state’s youth.
The Drug-Free Himachal Campaign, titled “Elevate – Experience the Real High, A Step Towards Drug-Free Himachal,” was organized by the Anuvrat Vishwa Bharati Society. The campaign will now expand to different districts across Himachal Pradesh to spread awareness against drug addiction.
Governor Calls for Early Drug Awareness
During the Drug-Free Himachal Campaign, Governor Kavinder Gupta stressed the importance of educating children about the harmful effects of drugs from an early age. He said awareness at the school level can help prevent addiction before it begins.
Moreover, he appealed to parents, teachers, social organizations, and citizens to work together to safeguard young people from substance abuse.
According to the Governor, protecting youth from drugs is a shared responsibility that requires continuous public participation.
Campaign Aims to Build a Drug-Free India
The Governor described the Drug-Free Himachal Campaign as an important contribution to the national vision of a Drug-Free India. He said the campaign encourages young people to achieve success through talent, discipline, and hard work instead of falling into drug addiction.
Furthermore, he explained that the word “Elevate” symbolizes rising to greater heights through healthy living, meaningful goals, and selfless service.
As a result, the initiative has the potential to grow into a nationwide people’s movement that inspires youth to choose a disciplined and purposeful life.
Teachers and Families Play a Key Role
The Governor highlighted the crucial role of teachers in shaping young minds. He said regular guidance and counselling can help students stay away from drugs and make responsible decisions.
Additionally, he expressed concern over the rise of nuclear families. He noted that many young people no longer receive regular guidance from elders. Consequently, loneliness, stress, depression, and drug abuse have become growing concerns.
Therefore, he urged families to maintain strong relationships, encourage open communication, and provide emotional support to children.
Himachal Must Protect Its Youth
The Drug-Free Himachal Campaign also focused on the growing challenge of drug abuse in the state. The Governor acknowledged that Himachal Pradesh is no longer untouched by this problem.
However, he expressed confidence that the state can make significant progress if the campaign reaches people at the grassroots level.
He also said that India aims to become a developed nation by 2047. Therefore, protecting young people from drug addiction remains essential to achieving that national goal.
Awareness Campaign Receives Wide Participation
Representatives from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and several other states attended the event.
During the programme, the Governor honoured individuals who have made outstanding contributions to drug de-addiction awareness. He also released a booklet focused on drug awareness.
NIT Jalandhar Director and Additional Director of NIT Srinagar, Prof. Vinod Kumar Kanojia, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted the need to create awareness about excessive mobile phone usage among young people and encouraged students to pursue excellence through discipline and positive thinking.
The Drug-Free Himachal Campaign concluded with a strong call for collective action to build a healthier, safer, and addiction-free future for the youth of Himachal Pradesh.
Key Highlights of the news:
- Governor Kavinder Gupta launched the Drug-Free Himachal Campaign in Shimla.
- The campaign will expand to districts across Himachal Pradesh to spread anti-drug awareness.
- The Governor urged early drug education for children and mission-mode action against addiction.
- Teachers, parents, and society were asked to work together to protect youth.
- The event honoured individuals working in drug de-addiction and promoted the vision of a Drug-Free India.
