Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], August 2 : Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday called upon the youth to shun narcotics, stating that every youngster lost to addiction is a "national loss", highlighting the grave impact of drug abuse on the nation's future.
The Governor was speaking at the 'Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan,' an initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create a drug-free India.
Addressing the gathering in Bhubaneswar, Governor Kambhampati emphasised that the battle against drugs is a collective responsibility.
"Every youth wrapped in drugs is not just a personal tragedy; it is a national loss. Therefore, saying no to drugs is not simply a personal decision; it is a commitment to your parents, teachers, friends and motherland," the Governor said.
Urging the youth to find purpose and excitement in constructive activities, Kambhampati noted that the temporary "high" of drugs pales in comparison to life's real achievements.
"Life offers you far greater excitement than any harmful substance ever can," he said.
He further added, "The thrill of winning on the sports field, the satisfaction of learning a new skill, the joy of serving society, the confidence of achieving your goals and the pride of making your family happy, these are the real highs of your life."
Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan initiative aims to connect young citizens with the vision of a developed India while creating awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse. By combining civic engagement with anti-drug awareness, the programme seeks to empower youth to become ambassadors of a healthy, responsible and drug-free India.
The Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan program was held at more than 28,000 locations across the nation. From these locations, more than 1 crore Youth will be joining this event. Five prominent Spiritual Gurus, including Pujya Amma, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Pujya Daji, Dr. Chinmaya Pandya, and Swami Brahmavihariji, also attended the event.
The launch event witnessed participation from many Chief Ministers and Governors too.
The event was organised with the support of 125+ spiritual organisations, schools, colleges, institutions, public organisations, and industrial associations. Senior representatives from Brahma Kumaris, ISKCON, Chinmaya Mission and Auroville were also present.