Sribhumi (Assam), 18 September (HS): Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Friday participated in the second day of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra at Sribhumi, calling for collective efforts by the government, security agencies, educational institutions, civil society, parents, teachers and youth to protect young people from substance abuse.

The Padayatra, launched by the Governor in Cachar on Thursday, is being organised across 10 districts of Assam to create awareness against substance abuse and strengthen public participation in the campaign for a drug-free Assam.

Addressing a gathering at the District Library, Acharya said the initiative draws inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat and a Viksit Bharat. He urged people from all sections of society to take the campaign to every community and village.

The Governor stressed the need to deal firmly with drug trafficking networks while showing sensitivity towards young people affected by substance abuse. He said drug abuse harms not only individuals but also families and society, and called for creating an environment where young people have positive opportunities, family support and access to help.

“Firmness against trafficking networks and sensitivity towards young people who have fallen into the trap of drug abuse” are both essential, the Governor said.

He also emphasised the role of yoga, meditation, sports and constructive activities in helping young people develop discipline, confidence and a positive outlook. Acharya urged parents to maintain open communication with their children and teachers to promote awareness and healthy lifestyles among students.

Appealing to the youth, he said, “Do not allow drugs to become a part of your life. Pursue your dreams, set your identity, undertake hard and dedicate your life to nation-building.”

Highlighting Sribhumi’s strategic importance as a border district, the Governor said the responsibility of the administration and people in preventing the trafficking of narcotic substances was particularly significant. He appreciated the efforts of the administration and security agencies and called for continued coordination with local communities.

The Governor said the campaign should extend beyond public events and reach individual families and communities. “One young person should make another young person aware; one family should inspire another family; and one village should connect another village with the campaign for de-addiction,” he said.

Earlier, Sribhumi District Commissioner Pradip Kumar Dwivedi administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp pledge to the participants. The Padayatra began at the District Library and culminated at Shiv Bari, where the Governor paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

More than 1,000 people participated in the awareness march. PHE Minister Krishnendu Paul, MP Kripanath Mallah, District Commissioner Pradip Kumar Dwivedi, SSP Leena Doley, senior civil and police officials, NGO representatives, students, teachers, social organisations and citizens also took part in the Padayatra.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash