Youth participation key to drug-free state: Governor

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Friday emphasised that public participation and sustained awareness were crucial in the fight against drug abuse. Addressing a cultural and social awareness programme organised by the Youth Enlightenment Society (YES) at the Gaiety Theatre here, he said that informed and vigilant citizens could significantly strengthen the efforts of both the government and law enforcement agencies.

YES state president Mohit Thakur welcomed the Governor and briefed him on the organisation’s activities.

Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among the youth, the Governor described it as one of the most serious challenges facing society today. He said a drug-free Himachal Pradesh was possible only with proactive youth leadership and urged young people to step forward with determination and awareness to combat the social evil.

Appreciating the efforts of the Youth Enlightenment Society, Shukla said engaging youth in positive activities and steering them away from substance abuse was a significant step towards nation-building. “A strong youth is defined by discipline, service and a conscious distance from drugs,” he said, appealing to citizens to collectively pledge for a healthy, drug-free and empowered Himachal Pradesh.