Health Minister calls for collective action against drug abuse among youth

Minister for Health Satya Kumar Yadav on Saturday called for a united fight to protect youngsters from drug abuse and other narcotic addictions, highlighting that ‘a healthy and strong youth population is vital for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047’.

Addressing the ‘Nasha Mukth – Ten Crore Addiction-Free Pledge Mega Campaign’ organised by the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalayam at Dharmavaram town in Sri Sathya Sai district, the Minister said addiction to drugs would destroy health, education, employment, family life and social relationships.

“Drugs are dangerous. What we need now is big dreams for a progressive society,” Mr. Yadav told the students, urging them to focus on education, skills, sports and career goals. “Unfortunately, mobile-phone addiction has emerged as a concern among children. Parents should watch for behavioural changes and seek counselling when required,” he said.

Recalling his student days, the Minister said he had once smoked cigarettes but quit after a family member warned him about the health consequences. “Students should stay away from tobacco, alcohol, gutka, ganja and drugs. Combating drugs require coordinated efforts by parents, teachers, educational institutions, police, doctors and voluntary organisations. The victims of drug addiction should receive counselling, treatment and rehabilitation rather than being viewed as offenders,” the Minister said.

Deputy Superintendent of Police B.V. Jagannath Raju said police and other stakeholders had a crucial role in preventing drug supply and creating awareness among youth. He urged students to make the anti-addiction pledge a commitment and become citizens capable of contributing to nation-building.

Senior police officers from Dharmavaram division, officials of various departments, representatives of educational institutions and people’s representatives also took part in the meeting.