Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra reaches Sribhumi; Assam Governor attends it
Governor calls for collective action to protect youth from substance abuse
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya today attended the second-day of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra in Sribhumi, carrying forward the campaign that was launched by him yesterday at Cachar.
It may be noted that the Padayatra is being organised across 10 districts of Assam to generate awareness against substance abuse and strengthen public participation in the movement for a drug-free Assam.
Addressing a public gathering at the District Library, the Governor said that the initiative draws inspiration from the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for a Nasha Mukt Bharat and a Viksit Bharat.
The Governor said that the second day of the Padayatra, at Sribhumi represented a collective resolve for building a deterrent against drug abuse. He called upon people from all sections of society to join the campaign and ensure that its message reaches every part of Assam.
Recalling the literary and cultural significance of Sribhumi, the Governor said that coming to this historic land naturally brings to mind Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore and his deep appreciation of the region. He said that while preserving its rich cultural heritage and identity, Sribhumi is moving forward on a new journey of development. From this land, he said, a renewed resolve must be initiated to build a healthy, empowered and drug-free society.
Stressing the importance of protecting the youth, Shri Acharya said that substance abuse not only harms individuals but also affects families and society. He called for creating an environment in which young people have positive opportunities, strong family support and the confidence to seek help when required.
“We must adopt firmness against trafficking networks and sensitivity towards young people who have fallen into the trap of drug abuse”, the Governor said.
He reiterated that the fight against drugs requires the combined efforts of all stakeholders like government, security agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations, parents, teachers and young people. While law-enforcement agencies have an important role in checking trafficking and the supply of narcotic substances, sustained public participation is essential for prevention and awareness.
The Governor also highlighted the importance of Yoga, meditation, sports and constructive engagement in helping young people develop discipline, self-confidence and a positive outlook. He said that India’s traditions have long emphasised self-control, balance and a healthy way of life, and these values can provide a strong foundation for the campaign against addiction.
He urged parents to maintain open communication with their children, understand their concerns and identify early signs of substance abuse. He called upon teachers to strengthen awareness among students and promote a culture of healthy living and responsible choices.
Appealing to the youth, the Governor 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 the strategic importance of Sribhumi as a border district, the Governor said that the responsibility of the people and the administration in combating the trafficking of narcotic substances becomes even more significant. He appreciated the efforts of the administration and security agencies and called for continued cooperation between enforcement agencies and the community.
The Governor said that the success of the campaign would depend on taking the message beyond public events and into 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 commenced from 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, reaffirming their commitment to the cause of a drug-free India and a drug-free Assam.
PHE Minister Krishnendu Paul, MP Kripanath Mallah, District Commissioner of Sribhumi District Pradip Kumar Dwivedi , SSP Leena Doley, senior officers of the civil administration and police, representatives of NGOs, students, teachers, social organisations and a large number of citizens took part in the Padyatra.