Youth can play key role in curbing drug menace: Governor

Youth can play a major role in breaking supply chain of drugs in the state and protect others from falling prey to drug paddlers. This was stated by Shiv Pratap Shukla, Governor, while addressing an anti-drug awareness program at Gautam Group of Colleges (GGC) organised in collaboration with Himachal Pradesh Technical University here today. He also flagging off an anti-drug rally in which nearly 200 students from various educational institutions participated.

"If drugs infiltrate the land of warriors, there will be no soldiers, if they reach educational institutions, we will lose future doctors and engineers," Governor said. He said that during his first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PM expressed concern over the rising drug menace in Himachal Pradesh. He said that he was inspired by PM and launched the “Nasha Mukt Himachal – Swasth Himachal” campaign in the state.

Urging society to participate actively in the anti-drug mission, the Governor said that Panchayati Raj institutions, education institutes and women can play an important role in combating this menace. He said that if women decide to fight against drugs abuse then the efforts would bear fruits soon. The Governor also acknowledged the crucial support of the media in amplifying the campaign's reach.

Bhagat Singh, Superintendent of Police, briefed about the programme ‘War Against Drugs’ started by police in the district involving schools, colleges and local communities. Dr Rajeet, psychiatrists and educationists spoke about the psychological and societal impacts of drug abuse and the need for preventive strategies like counselling and rehabilitation.

Prof Shashi Dhiman, Vice Chancellor of HPTU, Amarjeet Singh, Deputy Commissioner, Jagdish Gautam, chairman of Gautam College and Dr Rajneesh Gautam, secretary of GGC, were also present on the occasion.