Assam Governor Urges Youth to Lead Campaign for a Drug-Free Assam:Calls for greater awareness, family support and collective action against substance abuse.

Dalim Phukan.
Hills Live News, Guwahati, October 12: Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya has called upon the youth to become active ambassadors of a drug-free society, stressing that awareness, self-discipline and family support are essential to protect the younger generation from substance abuse.
The Governor was speaking at the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan, organised by Lok Bhavan, Assam, at Gauhati University on Monday.
Addressing students and other participants, Acharya said the fight against drug abuse was not merely about abstaining from intoxicating substances but also about embracing a healthy lifestyle, developing strong moral character, protecting families and building a responsible society. He emphasised that the strength of a nation depended on the health of its citizens, the character of its youth and the well-being of its families.
Referring to the Sanskrit maxim “Vidya Dadati Vinayam”, the Governor observed that education should go beyond the acquisition of knowledge and promote humility, wisdom, self-discipline and noble conduct. He said that combining knowledge with values and personal success with social responsibility was essential for building a stronger society and a capable nation.
Appreciating the contribution of Assam Rifles personnel to the campaign, Acharya said the force’s traditions of courage, discipline and service to the nation offered valuable lessons for society. He noted that, just as protecting the country’s borders required determination and vigilance, combating drug abuse demanded collective awareness, self-control and sustained public participation.
The Governor particularly urged students, research scholars and NCC and NSS cadets to take the message of a drug-free society beyond university campuses to hostels, educational institutions, villages and neighbourhoods. Describing young people as powerful agents of social change, he said their conduct and individual initiatives could inspire their peers and prevent vulnerable youngsters from falling prey to substance abuse.
Highlighting the role of families and educational institutions, Acharya said meaningful social transformation began at home. He stressed the need for open communication between parents and children, sensitivity towards young people’s concerns and the role of teachers in nurturing confidence, discipline and positive thinking.
He also observed that providing young people with a clear purpose, meaningful opportunities and positive companionship was crucial to channel their energy towards constructive activities.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat, the Governor said the country’s development depended significantly on a healthy, educated, skilled and responsible younger generation. He noted that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was aligned with this vision by promoting awareness and encouraging citizens to take responsibility for themselves, their families and society.
Acharya also recalled the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padyatra conducted across various districts of Assam from September 17 to October 2 to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. Appreciating the enthusiastic participation of young people and other sections of society, he said the initiative had strengthened the belief that collective commitment could bring meaningful social change.
The Governor called for a united effort to build an Assam where young people could realise their aspirations and families could live in an atmosphere of health, happiness and trust. He expressed confidence that sustained cooperation among educational institutions, security forces, social organisations, families and responsible citizens would help create a healthier and more conscious society.
The programme was attended by Gauhati University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta, Assam Rifles 21 Sector Commander Brigadier Nishant Chandel, Gauhati University Registrar Prof. Utpal Sharma, 41 Assam Rifles Commandant Vicky Lamoria, senior Assam Rifles officers, faculty members, students and other dignitaries.
Later, the Governor led a Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padyatra from Gauhati University, with enthusiastic participation from students and NSS volunteers, spreading the message of a drug-free Assam and a healthier society.