Calling for a united and sustained campaign against drug abuse, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Wednesday launched ‘Elevate – Experience the Real High, A Step Towards Drug-Free Himachal’, a statewide anti-drug awareness initiative aimed at protecting the younger generation from substance abuse.
The campaign, organised by the Anuvrat Vishwa Bharati Society at Lok Bhavan, will be taken across districts of Himachal Pradesh to spread awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and encourage a healthier, purpose-driven lifestyle.
Addressing the inaugural session, the Governor stressed that awareness about the dangers of substance abuse must begin at an early age. He urged every section of society to join hands in safeguarding the future of the youth and described the initiative as a significant step towards realizing the vision of a Drug-Free India.
“The true meaning of ‘Elevate’ is to rise in life through good health, discipline, service and purpose—not through addiction,” he said, expressing confidence that the campaign could evolve into a nationwide people’s movement inspiring young people to make positive life choices.
The Governor said Himachal Pradesh could make significant progress towards becoming a drug-free State if the campaign’s objectives were implemented effectively at the grassroots level. Describing youth as the nation’s greatest asset, he said protecting them from the menace of drugs was a shared responsibility of families, teachers, institutions and society.
Highlighting the role of educators, he said teachers could play a crucial part in preventing addiction by counselling students regularly and guiding them towards constructive pursuits.
Referring to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the Governor said achieving that goal would require a healthy, empowered and addiction-free youth. He also expressed concern over the rise of nuclear families, saying weaker family support systems had contributed to loneliness, stress and vulnerability among young people. Strong family bonds and open communication, he added, were essential to addressing these challenges.
Describing Himachal Pradesh as Dev Bhoomi, the Governor said the State must collectively ensure that the growing drug menace does not undermine its social fabric. He also honoured individuals for their contribution to anti-drug awareness and released a booklet on drug abuse prevention.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Vinod Kumar Kanojia, Director of NIT Jalandhar and Additional Director of NIT Srinagar, described Himachal Pradesh as a symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and stressed the need to sensitise youth about the harmful effects of both drug addiction and excessive mobile phone use.
The programme witnessed participation from educationists, social workers and youth representatives from several States, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir and Chandigarh.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
