'YES' organizes cultural and social awareness programme
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today emphasized that public participation and sustained awareness are crucial in the fight against drug abuse, stating that informed and vigilant citizens can significantly strengthen the efforts of both the government and law enforcement agencies.
He was addressing a cultural and social awareness programme organised by the Youth Enlightenment Society (YES) at the historic Gaiety Theatre, Shimla.
The Governor said that culture and social consciousness connect society to its roots and provide the right direction for collective progress. He expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among youth, calling it one of the most serious challenges facing society today. Stressing that a drug-free Himachal is possible only with proactive youth leadership, he urged youth to come forward with determination and awareness to combat this social evil.
Appreciating the efforts of the YES, he said that engaging youth in positive activities and steering them away from substance abuse is a strong step towards nation-building. “A strong youth is defined by discipline, service and a conscious distance from drugs,” he said, appealing to citizens to collectively pledge for a healthy, drug-free and empowered Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier, State President of the Youth Enlightenment Society, Mohit Thakur welcomed the Governor and briefed about the organisation’s activities.
On the occasion, a skit highlighting the ill-effects of drug abuse was presented, along with cultural performances by students of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Degree College, Sunni.
Officers of the district administration, representatives of the organisation and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.
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