Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the ‘Run for Awareness’ rally in Haldwani as part of the state’s anti-drug campaign, sending a strong message against substance abuse among youth.
The rally, held under the “Nasha Mukt Uttarakhand Abhiyan,” witnessed participation from thousands of students, young people, public representatives, and citizens.
A Run for a Drug-Free Future
The rally began from MB Inter College ground, where CM Dhami addressed the gathering before flagging it off. He emphasized that the event was not just about physical fitness but a collective pledge toward building a healthy, prosperous, and drug-free Uttarakhand.
He urged participants to carry forward the message that the youth of the state are saying “no” to drugs and “yes” to life.
‘Drug Abuse is a Silent War’: CM Dhami
Highlighting the growing threat of substance abuse, the Chief Minister described drugs as a “silent war” targeting the youth. He warned that many young people fall into addiction unknowingly, and escaping it becomes extremely difficult.
According to him, drug abuse not only affects individuals but also disrupts families and society at large.
Inspired by National Mission Against Drugs
CM Dhami noted that the state government is working in mission mode against drug abuse, drawing inspiration from Narendra Modi’s ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ launched in 2020.
He highlighted key initiatives, including:
- Formation of Anti-Narcotics Task Force in 2022
- Arrest of thousands of accused and seizure of large quantities of drugs
- Establishment of Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs)
- Expansion of de-addiction centers in government medical colleges
Youth Engagement Through ‘Dagadiya Clubs’
To channel youth energy positively, the government has introduced ‘Dagadiya Clubs,’ which encourage young people to stay away from drugs and engage in constructive activities.
CM Dhami stressed that awareness and participation from society are crucial, as the fight against drugs cannot be won by laws alone.
Collective Pledge for Drug-Free Uttarakhand
During the event, the Chief Minister administered an anti-drug pledge to attendees, urging them to stay away from addiction and spread awareness among peers and communities.
He emphasized that only strong determination—not symbolic participation—can help achieve the vision of a “Drug-Free Uttarakhand.”
Dignitaries and Public Participation
The event was attended by several prominent leaders and dignitaries, including:
- Ram Singh Kaida
- Gajaraj Singh Bisht
- Deepak Rawat
- Lalit Mohan Ryal
Along with them, officials, social leaders, and a large number of youth contributed to making the rally a success.
Vision: Healthy Youth, Strong Uttarakhand
The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to preserving Uttarakhand’s cultural values and harnessing its youth power for nation-building. With sustained awareness and public participation, the campaign aims to create a healthier and addiction-free society.
