Batala, Apr 16 (PTI) Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Thursday asserted that safeguarding the youth from drug addiction is a shared responsibility, saying the younger generation represents the country’s greatest strength and calling upon people to become the driving force of anti-drug efforts.
Addressing a seminar against drug abuse at VMS Institute in Gurdaspur’s Batala, the governor highlighted the damage inflicted by drugs on society, families, and individuals, particularly the youth.
He urged parents, teachers, social organisations, and village panchayats to turn the ongoing anti-drug awareness efforts into a mass movement, according to an official release.
Kataria said a widespread public awareness campaign is underway in Punjab as part of the government’s anti-drug drive ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’, asserting that it has achieved considerable success so far.
However, he stressed that greater public participation is essential to eradicate the menace.
“The people must become the driving force of this movement. Only then the dream of a drug-free and ‘Rangla Punjab’ (‘Vibrant Punjab’) can be realised,” he said, adding that a community-led campaign would play a decisive role in tackling the issue.
Emphasising the role of educational institutions, the governor said schools and colleges can significantly contribute to building awareness and guiding youth away from substance abuse.
He called upon academic institutions to actively engage students in anti-drug campaigns and related activities.
During the event, Kataria administered an anti-drug oath to those present and also honoured students for their achievements in various fields.
Students also presented performances highlighting the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. PTI CHS ARB ARB
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