Janjhlei in Mandi district echoed with resounding slogans of drug-free living as hundreds of school students and mahila mandals participated in the “Drug-Free Mandi Campaign,” which was flagged off by the Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla from the government central Primary School, Janjheli.
Former Chief Minister and leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur was also present on the occasion. Addressing a large public gathering at the school ground, the Governor expressed his delight over visiting the picturesque Seraj region for the first time and emphasized the importance of preserving its natural beauty.
He said he got inspired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and joined this campaign with full commitment and initiated awareness drives across all districts of Himachal Pradesh. He highlighted the critical role played by Panchayati Raj institutions, Mahila Mandals, media, and especially school students in this movement.
At the same time, he pointed out that many families attempted to hide drug addiction issues due to social stigma. “To eliminate any social evil, success can only be achieved when the entire society comes together,” said the Governor adding that he is glad to see that people are beginning to unite for this cause.
Shri Shukla appreciated the support extended by the state government to his campaign. He also acknowledged the unanimous support of all members of the State Legislative Assembly for anti-drug legislation, while stressing that societal involvement remains essential.
Recalling the heroic legacy of Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said, “It is a matter of pride that the country’s first Param Vir Chakra was awarded to Major Somnath Sharma of this state. But with the rising drug abuse, how will we nurture warriors like him in the future?” He warned that while Pakistan cannot engage in a direct war, it is trying to weaken Indian society indirectly through drug trafficking.
He called for collective vigilance against such threats. The Governor lauded the success of “Operation Sindoor” which demolished terror camps across the border, enhancing India’s global stature and pushing the country’s economy to the fourth-largest position worldwide.
He felicitated the women of Balwad Panchayat for launching a special campaign against drug abuse and for guiding the community. The Governor announced contribution of Rs. 15,000 from his discretionary fund to honour Radha Devi of Mandi, who won three silver medals at the Paralympics held in Italy.
Speaking on the occasion, Jai Ram Thakur commended efforts of the Governor to raise awareness against drug abuse. He emphasized that this is not a one-day campaign, but a continuous movement that demands participation from every household.
He stressed the vital role of women in the anti-drug movement adding that if women resolve to act, drugs cannot enter their homes. He expressed concern over the growing menace of synthetic drugs and the increasing number of youth drawn into this deadly trade for quick money.
He urged students to take a firm stand against drugs, assuring them that society stands firmly with them in their resolve. Earlier, Deputy Commissioner of Mandi Apoorva Devgan shared details of the district’s roadmap for the drug-free campaign and various related initiatives undertaken by the administration.
SP Sakshi Verma detailed about the strategies being implemented in the district, focusing on identification, treatment, and rehabilitation. A cultural programme on drug de-addiction was also presented by the women of Navchetna Mandal, Khamrar.
MLAs Vinod Kumar, Rakesh Jamwal, Surender Shourie, Inder Singh Gandhi, Dalip Singh Thakur, Deep Raj, Purn Chand Thakur, Lokinder Kumar, former MLA Ravi Thakur, Zila Parishad Chairman Pal Verma, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma were also present on the occasion.
Comments are closed.