Dehradun, October 14, 2026: As part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free India Campaign), the Dehradun District Administration organised a drug awareness workshop at Graphic Era Hill University on Wednesday. Students were educated about the physical, mental, social and economic consequences of substance abuse and encouraged to adopt a healthy and positive lifestyle. On the occasion, 10,000 young people took a pledge to stay away from drugs and actively contribute to building a drug-free society.
The programme was attended by Dehradun District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan as the Chief Guest; educationist Lalit Mohan Joshi, Founder of Sajag India and Chairman of CIMS & UIHMT Group of Colleges, as the Guest of Honour; Additional District Magistrate Smita Parmar; District Social Welfare Officer Dipankar Ghildiyal; and other officials, experts and speakers.
Choosing Positive Alternatives Is the Key to a Bright Future: DM
Addressing the gathering, District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan said that individuals face numerous choices in life, and making the right decisions is essential for shaping a better future. He urged young people to engage in positive and constructive activities and stay completely away from drugs.
He emphasised that drug addiction affects not only an individual’s health but also has adverse consequences for families and society as a whole. Self-discipline, self-control and awareness of one’s behaviour are essential to preventing substance abuse.
The District Magistrate stated that tackling this serious social challenge requires sustained and coordinated efforts by the government, administration, police, educational institutions, social organisations, parents and citizens. He added that awareness workshops are being organised at universities and colleges across the district to educate young people, keep them away from substance abuse and encourage their participation in positive activities.
A Drug-Free Society Begins with Values, Education and Family: Lalit Mohan Joshi
Guest of Honour and educationist Lalit Mohan Joshi said, “Keeping young people away from drugs begins with family values and upbringing.” He emphasised that respect for parents, a sense of responsibility towards family, an understanding of moral values and value-based education form the foundation of a young person’s character.
He said India is a nation of young people, and healthy, educated, value-driven and aware youth can lead the country to new heights of development. To channel their energy in the right direction, young people must be provided with positive opportunities in education, skill development, sports, employment, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Joshi explained that substance abuse affects not only physical health but also education, behaviour, career prospects and family life. In certain circumstances, it may also be associated with broader social problems, including violence and crime. Therefore, protecting young people from drugs is not merely a public health concern but a vital responsibility linked to the future of families, society and the nation.
He urged young people to stay away from drugs themselves and spread awareness about their harmful effects among friends, family members and people in their communities.
“Drug-free youth are the strong foundation of a healthy, empowered and developed India,” he said.
During the programme, Additional District Magistrate Smita Parmar and other officials also highlighted the importance of active youth participation in building a drug-free society. They stressed the need for collective efforts involving the district administration, educational institutions, parents and social organisations to achieve this goal.
