The fight against drugs is not just the responsibility of the government and police, but a shared responsibility of society as a whole: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday flagged off the Drug-Free Uttarakhand Walkathon, organised by the ONGC Officers Association at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Ground, ONGC, Dehradun. He also administered an oath to the participants to work towards making Uttarakhand drug-free. On the occasion, the Chief Minister called upon young people and all participants to actively contribute to building a drug-free Uttarakhand.
The Chief Minister said that the Drug-Free Uttarakhand Walkathon is not merely an event, but an important initiative aimed at raising public awareness and conveying the message of building a healthy and empowered Uttarakhand. Such events increase awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and inspire young people to move forward in a positive direction. He appreciated the office-bearers and organisers of the ONGC Officers Association, particularly Shri Devendra Singh Bisht, for this initiative.
The Chief Minister said that drug abuse affects not only an individual’s health and future but also their family and society. A young person whose hands should be holding books, who should be showcasing their talent on the sports field and shaping their future through hard work, may see their dreams shattered if they fall into the trap of addiction. This also affects the hopes and aspirations of their family. Therefore, it is everyone’s responsibility to keep young people away from drugs and channel their energy and talent in the right direction.
The Chief Minister said that young people are the greatest strength of the state. They should progress in life through their talent, self-confidence and hard work. To stay away from drugs, sports, yoga and exercise must become part of their daily routine. Good company, positive thinking and a healthy lifestyle help young people move towards a better future. He urged the youth not only to stay away from drugs themselves but also to educate their peers about the harmful consequences of substance abuse.
The Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs cannot be won through the efforts of the government and police alone. Parents, teachers, social organisations and every section of society must fulfil their responsibilities. The message of a drug-free society must reach every home and village through schools, colleges, workplaces and sports grounds. He told young people not to remain mere participants in this campaign but to take the lead and become a source of inspiration for others.
The Chief Minister said that the state government is continuously working to make Uttarakhand drug-free. Along with taking action against those involved in the illegal drug trade, special attention is being given to public awareness, de-addiction, treatment and rehabilitation. He emphasised that individuals affected by addiction also need proper guidance, counselling, treatment and emotional support from their families. Achieving the goal of a drug-free Uttarakhand requires effective enforcement, social awareness and better coordination among rehabilitation initiatives.
The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is not only Devbhoomi, the Land of the Gods, but also a land of brave warriors, ascetics and rich cultural traditions. The younger generation must carry forward this glorious heritage by achieving new milestones in education, skill development, sports, startups, innovation and entrepreneurship. The government aims to channel the energy of young people towards the development of the state and the nation while providing them with more opportunities to nurture and showcase their talents.
The Chief Minister said that the commitment to a drug-free Uttarakhand should not remain limited to a single event but must become an integral part of people’s conduct, thoughts and behaviour. He urged everyone to spread the message, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life,” among the masses. He said that only through collective efforts and public participation can a healthy, strong and drug-free Uttarakhand be built, where every young person can progress through talent and hard work, and every family can look forward to a secure and prosperous future.
Those present on the occasion included Cabinet Minister Shri Khajan Das, MLA Smt. Savita Kapoor, Vice-Chairman of the Uttarakhand State Backward Classes Welfare Council Shri Ashok Verma, Dr. Vikas Loiyal, President of the ONGC Officers Association Shri Devendra Singh Bisht, and other distinguished guests.
