Governor Calls for Drug-Free Youth to Anchor India’s National Growth
BALLARI – Highlighting the corrosive impact of substance abuse on the social fabric of the country, Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot issued a clarion call to the youth to remain “free from addiction” to ensure the successful building of a strong and prosperous India.
Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony of a high-profile walkathon on Wednesday, organized jointly by the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Dishabodhi Foundation, and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the Governor emphasized that drug addiction is no longer just a personal health issue but a significant national challenge.
The Socio-Economic Toll of Addiction
The event, held at the Ballari Medical College and Research Centre (BMCRC) ground, served as a platform for the Governor to address the rising unrest linked to narcotics.
“Drug addiction is a challenge that disrupts families and increases unrest and crime in society,” Governor Gehlot stated. “For building a strong India, it is essential for youth to remain free from addiction.”
He further expressed concern over the rising statistics of drug abuse across the region, noting that such habits counter the spiritual and disciplined heritage of the land.
“Messages and principles of great social reformers like Basavanna have always guided us towards discipline and righteous living. It is worrying that drug abuse is increasing in this sacred land,” he added.
University Initiatives and Campus Safety
The walkathon was part of the broader ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ (Addiction-Free India) and ‘Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan’ (Youth Purification Campaign). RGUHS Vice-Chancellor Dr. B.C. Bhagavan outlined the university’s proactive stance in curbing the menace within educational institutions.
Dr. Bhagavan revealed that “anti-drug squads have been formed in every college” under the university’s jurisdiction. He urged students to not only protect themselves from harmful habits but to actively “spread awareness among others” to create a shield against the narcotics trade.
A Multi-Faith Call to Action
The campaign saw rare horizontal unity across religious and administrative lines. Catholic Bishop Henry D’Souza underscored the existential importance of the movement for the next generation.
“The country has a future only when youth stay away from addiction and strive for higher achievements,” the Bishop remarked during the gathering.
Echoing these sentiments, Kammarachedu Srikalyanaswamy Mutt Swamiji lauded RGUHS for looking beyond traditional academics to focus on the moral and social health of its students. In a poignant moment regarding social responsibility, the Seer also highlighted his pledge for organ and body donation, urging the youth to view their bodies as instruments for social good rather than targets for substance abuse.
Community Mobilization in Ballari
The awareness walkathon saw massive student participation, with thousands carrying placards through the heart of Ballari. The route commenced at the BMCRC ground, winding through Sudha Circle, Infantry Road, and Kanakadasa Circle, before concluding at the Kittur Rani Chennamma High School premises.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials including Mayor P. Gadeppa, NCB Inspector Vikas Singh, and SP Chidanand, signaling a coordinated crackdown on the supply chain of drugs alongside the public awareness efforts.
