Drugs not just a regional issue: Kataria

The Department of Higher Education, Chandigarh Administration, organised a state-level event for ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’ at Post Graduate Government College for Girls, Sector 42, Chandigarh today. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator of UT Chandigarh.

The programme commenced with a classical dance performance by students, followed by a skit on the theme ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh’ and the screening of reels by winners of inter-college competitions. The ‘Swasth Yuva, Sashakt Yuva’ logo was launched by Kataria during the event. Additionally, the annual activity calendar of VADA Clubs and the theme song for ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’ were also unveiled. The theme song will be played regularly on the Swachh Sawari in Chandigarh.

The Administrator honoured the winners of VADA Club activities, Principal, and Nodal Officers from VADA Clubs of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). He also administered a pledge against drug use to all attendees. Following this, a rally for “Nasha Mukt Chandigarh” was flagged off by the Administrator.

In his address, Kataria highlighted the drug menace, stressing that it is a national crisis, not just a regional issue. He mentioned that under the NDPS Act, Punjab has an impressive conviction rate of 80 to 85 per cent, the highest in the country.

Dr Satinder Sartaaj, the Brand Ambassador of ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’ and a renowned singer and actor, emphasised the power of music in influencing the youth.

VADA clubs, established across Chandigarh’s HIEs, are actively involved in raising awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and promoting a zero-tolerance policy on drug use.

Vivek Pratap Singh, Principal Secretary to the Governor; Education Secretary (UT Chandigarh) Prerna Puri; and Director of Higher Education (UT Chandigarh) Rubinderjit Singh Brar were also present on the occasion. The programme concluded with a collective pledge from all participants.