Dehradun, October 23
Uttarakhand Chief Minister 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 a pledge for a drug-free Uttarakhand and called upon youth and citizens to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.
The Chief Minister said that the Drug-Free Uttarakhand Walkathon is not merely an event but an important campaign aimed at spreading awareness and promoting a healthy and empowered Uttarakhand. Such initiatives help increase public awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and inspire youth to move in a positive direction. He appreciated the office-bearers and organisers of the ONGC Officers Association, particularly Devendra Singh Bisht, for taking this initiative.
He said that drug addiction affects not only an individual’s health and future but also impacts families and society. A young person who should be studying, excelling in sports and shaping a bright future through hard work can see both personal dreams and family aspirations shattered if trapped in substance abuse. Therefore, providing the right direction to youth and keeping them away from drugs is a collective responsibility.
Describing youth as the state’s greatest strength, the Chief Minister said they should move forward in life through talent, confidence and hard work. He stressed that sports, yoga and regular exercise should become part of daily life to stay away from drugs. Positive thinking, healthy lifestyles and good company play a crucial role in building a better future. He urged young people to not only stay away from drugs themselves but also spread awareness among their peers.
The Chief Minister said the fight against drugs cannot be won by the government and police alone. Parents, teachers, social organisations and every section of society must play their part. The message of de-addiction must reach every household and village through schools, colleges, workplaces and sports grounds. He encouraged youth to become leaders of the campaign and serve as role models for others.
He said that the state government is continuously working towards making Uttarakhand drug-free. Alongside strict action against those involved in the illegal drug trade, special focus is being laid on public awareness, de-addiction, treatment and rehabilitation. He added that individuals affected by addiction require proper guidance, counselling, treatment and emotional support from their families. Effective coordination between enforcement, awareness and rehabilitation efforts is essential to achieve the goal of a drug-free Uttarakhand.
Highlighting Uttarakhand’s rich heritage as Devbhoomi and a land of brave warriors, saints and cultural traditions, he said that the younger generation must carry forward this legacy by achieving new milestones in education, skill development, sports, startups, innovation and entrepreneurship. The government is committed to ensuring that youth energy is channelled into nation-building and that they receive maximum opportunities to showcase their talent.
The Chief Minister said that the pledge for a drug-free Uttarakhand should not remain limited to a single event but become a part of people’s conduct, values and daily lives. He appealed to everyone to spread the message, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.” 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 realise their potential and every family can enjoy a secure and prosperous future.
Cabinet Minister Khajan Das, MLA Savita Kapoor, Vice Chairman of the Uttarakhand State Backward Classes Welfare Council Ashok Verma, Dr Vikas Loiwal, and ONGC Officers Association President Devendra Singh Bisht, among other dignitaries, were present on the occasion.