Launch mass awareness against drugs: UP CM Yogi

Attending an idol consecration ceremony of Siddh Baba Mahant Budhnath ji Maharaj at Murthal, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said from the 8th to the 19th century, India suffered immense damage to its spiritual and cultural traditions due to repeated attacks by invaders.

Addressing thousands of Nath sect yogis, saints and devotees from across the country, Yogi Adityanath said ‘Sanatan Dharma’ was not merely a method of worship, but a comprehensive culture that guided life.

He said the participation of around 4.5 crore devotees in a holy dip at the Sangam in Prayagraj on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya was a matter of astonishment for the world. Calling upon the youth to build a drug-free society, the CM said intoxication led to destruction. He said the enemies of the nation were failing in direct warfare and were conspiring to trap youth in the web of drugs.

Appealing to the saint community and citizens to launch a widespread mass awareness campaign against drugs, he also emphasised environmental protection, water conservation, and the rejuvenation of ponds and rivers, stating that maintaining the flow of sacred rivers was everyone’s responsibility. Collective efforts were necessary for a plastic-free society and conservation of natural resources.

Dr Arvind Sharma, Minister for Cooperation, Jails, Election, Heritage and Tourism, said the country's cultural heritage was its strength, and on the basis of this strength, India was showing the world the path to peace and harmony.

On the occasion, BJP state president Mohan Lal Badoli said the arrival of Yogi Adityanath had filled the region with spiritual energy.