Varsity students swear by fitness mantra for drug-free future
In a determined effort to curb drug abuse, the Punjab government has launched an anti-drug campaign titled ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’. Recognising the powerful role sports can play in deterring substance abuse, universities in Punjab are stepping up their commitment to physical fitness and healthy lifestyles.
Sports participation is known to significantly reduce the risk of drug use among youth by promoting positive behaviour, building self-esteem and offering healthy alternatives to boredom and peer pressure. While schools have structured physical education periods, many students lose touch with sports upon entering college or university. However, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) have made it a priority to keep their students active through compulsory fitness programs and top-notch sports infrastructure.
At PAU, every student admitted is required to either participate in sports or join the National Cadet Corps (NCC) for their first two years. Similarly, at GADVASU, NCC is mandatory for three years for students enrolled in the College of Veterinary Science.
“The foundation is set for the students in the initial years itself. Once they take up sports for two years, they get used to sweating it out and continue the habit further as well,” said Dr Tejinder Singh Riar, Additional Director, Communication, PAU. “PAU has a gym used by both hostellers and day scholars and the annual fee is very nominal. In addition, the university boasts expansive grounds including three basketball courts, two volleyball courts, two handball grounds, hockey and football grounds, a shooting range, an athletic track, a cycling velodrome, a swimming pool and more.” The extensive sports infrastructure at PAU is also shared by GADVASU students.
Dr Parteek Singh Dhaliwal, Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education and co-in charge of the sports wing at GADVASU, highlighted the transformative power of sports. “Sports instil discipline, teamwork and a sense of accomplishment, which can help individuals resist negative influences and drug use. Sports participation also boosts self-esteem and confidence, making individuals less vulnerable to negative self-image and feelings of inadequacy that might lead to drug use.”
Dr Dhaliwal further mentioned that GADVASU has four gyms that are regularly used by students. “In the evenings, when students are free, the gyms are full—it’s really heartening to see so many youngsters engaging in physical activity and sweating it out,” he added.
One PAU student, a hosteller busy on the treadmill, shared his personal transformation. “After lectures, I used to spend my free time lounging around and going out to eat with friends, which led to weight gain. I decided to change that and started coming to the gym. Now, I make good use of my time, maintain better health and feel energetic all the time.”
Dr Ashish, a city-based clinical psychologist, also emphasised the importance of sports in preventing drug abuse. “Sports provide a healthy outlet for energy and stress, offering an alternative to drug use as a way to cope with difficult emotions or situations. Regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved physical and mental well-being, which further reduces the appeal of drugs,” he said.
