By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: Reinforcing the Delhi Government’s commitment to combating substance abuse, Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh on Thursday led hundreds of citizens in taking the Drug-Free Society Pledge at India Gate during a large-scale awareness programme organised under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Addressing the gathering, the minister said the Centre and the Delhi Government were working together to build a Drug-Free India, stressing that public participation was the strongest pillar of the nationwide campaign. He urged citizens to join hands against substance abuse and help create healthier communities.
Highlighting the need to safeguard the younger generation, Indraj said keeping youth away from drugs through education, sports, skill development and creative activities was the most effective long-term solution. He also advocated a compassionate approach towards people battling addiction, emphasising that timely counselling, treatment and rehabilitation could help them rebuild their lives with dignity.
The minister said the Delhi Government was actively supporting the Union Government’s anti-drug initiatives by conducting awareness campaigns, counselling services and rehabilitation programmes in partnership with educational institutions, healthcare providers, NGOs and community organisations across the Capital.
The event was attended by MPs Manoj Tiwari and Bansuri Swaraj, senior government officials, students, voluntary organisations and citizens. An anti-drug awareness rally, a de-addiction exhibition, information stalls and a public message wall formed part of the campaign.
The programme also featured an inspiring performance by the Sukriti Band, a musical group led entirely by persons with disabilities, promoting the message of a drug-free lifestyle. Participants concluded the event by pledging to stay away from drugs, spread awareness and support rehabilitation efforts to build a healthier, safer Delhi and a Drug-Free India.
