DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that for the past ten and a half years, the youth of Haryana have been actively and unitedly fighting against the menace of drug abuse across the state.

Recently, a state-wide Cyclothon Yatra was organized as part of this campaign, witnessing the participation of over 7.5 lakh young individuals. In addition, marathons and similar events are being held in various districts to further strengthen awareness efforts. Nayab Singh Saini made these remarks while addressing thousands of participants before flagging off a half marathon on Ambala Road in Kaithal on Sunday morning.

Paralympic medallist and half marathon brand ambassador Sh Harvinder Singh, along with mountaineer Reena Bhatti, also took part in the event.

Demonstrating his commitment, the Chief Minister took part in the half marathon to inspire the youth to stay healthy and join forces in the fight against drug abuse, aiming to make Haryana a completely drug-free state.

He emphasized that drug addiction is a grave social evil that not only destroys the individual but also devastates families and weakens the fabric of society.

"It adversely impacts both physical and mental health, and erodes social harmony," he said. Highlighting the crucial role of young people in nation-building, the Chief Minister stated, "Our youth are the future of the country."

He called upon them to take a firm pledge that they will neither indulge in drug use nor allow others around them to fall into the trap, instead spreading awareness to combat this menace.

Nayab Singh Saini emphasized that ending drug addiction would lead to healthier youth, propelling the progress of society, the state, and the nation. He reaffirmed that the youth will play a pivotal role in realizing Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi's vision of a developed India by the year 2047.

He said that a drug-free Haryana is not merely a slogan but a collective resolution that requires everyone's united effort to achieve.

Expressing confidence after witnessing thousands of school and college students, athletes, police personnel, and volunteers participating in today's event, he said, "I am certain that our dream of making Haryana drug-free will undoubtedly become a reality."

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini stated that sports facilities across the state have been expanded to promote the health of youth and keep them away from drug addiction. Additionally, youth are being encouraged to avoid drugs through events such as marathons organized under the Haryana Uday program.

(editor@dailyworld.in)