SHIMLA 26^th March, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has stressed for the setting up of de-addiction centre on large-scale in Himachal Pradesh and urged the government to take concrete steps towards its establishment. He highlighted the harsh impact of drug abuse on society and called upon every citizen to remain vigilant like a soldier and protect their homes and communities from the tentacles of drug abuse.

He was speaking at the ‘Kisan Mela and Anti-Drug Awareness Camp’ at Khairi Research Farm, under the Regional Horticulture Research & Training Centre, Dhaula Kuan today. He stressed the importance of a united front in the fight against drug addiction. The event was jointly organised by Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni (Solan) and ICAR – Central Cattle Research Institute, Meerut. He also inaugurated the Khairi Research Farm and the flagged off an anti-drug awareness rally on the occasion.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the state to eradicating drug abuse and a comprehensive campaign was being conducted across Himachal, in which people from various sections of society were involved. He cautioned that de-addiction efforts would remain ineffective without strong corrective measures. He particularly urged Panchayati Raj institutions particularly women to take a leading role in ensuring the success of the campaign. As a firm measure, he announced that from the next academic session, every university student in the state will be required to sign an anti-drug pledge and any student found consuming drugs would face immediate expulsion.

The Governor said that, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he had initiated the "Drug-Free Himachal Campaign", which, despite a slow start was now yielding positive results. He said that the fight against drugs can only be won by the active participation of teachers, parents and the youth against this. He expressed concern over the growing impact of addiction in rural areas as well, which can adversely affect the agrarian economy and well being of rural masses.

The Governor honoured progressive farmers and released various university publications. He also reviewed a presentation by the Sirmaur district administration on its anti-drug campaign and interacted with "Namo Drone Didi" Paramjit Kaur at an exhibition showcasing the initiatives of self-help groups and government departments. He also planted Rudraksha and Vermilion (Sindoor) trees within the premises of research centre.

Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Dr. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel welcomed the Governor and highlighted various initiatives undertaken for the welfare of farmers. Principal Scientist at ICAR – Central Cattle Research Institute, Meerut Dr. Sanjeev Verma, elaborated on the institute’s efforts.

Director of Research Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan briefed the Governor on the various activities being carried out at the Regional Horticulture Research & Training Centre, Dhaula Kuan.

Several experts including Radhika Tomar from the Police Department, Psychiatrist Dr. Navdeep from the Health Department and District Welfare Officer Vivek Arora also shared their perspectives on drug eradication strategies. A thought-provoking skit depicting the adverse effects of drug addiction was performed by students from the Himalayan Institute, Kala Amb. A former drug addict who successfully overcame addiction shared his inspiring journey, while Mathematics teacher Anoop Mittal recounted his struggle and recovery from drug dependence.

Associate Director of the Research Centre, Dhaula Kuan Dr. Priyanka Thakur proposed the vote of thanks, bringing the programme to a meaningful close.

Secretary to Governor C.P. Verma, Acting Deputy Commissioner L.R. Verma, Superintendent of Police Nishchint Singh Negi, along with district administration officials, large number of farmers and other prominent dignitaries were also present on the occasion.