Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Tuesday took a resolute step in the fight against drug addiction by leading a two-day anti-drug march under the ‘Nasha Mukt-Rangla Punjab’ campaign. The march commenced from the historic village of Beas in Jalandhar on Tuesday, aiming to rally citizens against the scourge of drugs.
Governor Kataria, who personally walked the eight-kilometer stretch from the residence of legendary runner Fauja Singh, emphasized the indispensable role of women in combating this societal menace. Addressing a gathering, he underlined that women, as the backbone of families and communities, can play a transformative role by educating and protecting their children from falling into the trap of substance abuse.
Highlighting the grave implications of drug addiction, the Governor stated that it not only destroys the individual but wreaks havoc on families, with women often bearing the emotional and economic brunt. He urged women to take a proactive stance in raising awareness and fostering a culture of prevention.
“Drugs are a root cause of crime and societal decay. The fight against this menace cannot be left to governments alone; it demands a united front from every section of society,” the Governor said, calling for mass participation in creating a drug-free future for Punjab.
The march, organized by the Indian Red Cross Society and social activist Khushwant Singh, concluded at Bhatthe village on the first day. It was attended by dignitaries including IAS officer Lalit Jain, and Red Cross Punjab secretary Shivdular Singh, who lauded the Governor’s leadership in spearheading the campaign.
The initiative will continue on December 11, covering another seven kilometers to reach the Jang-e-Azadi Memorial in Kartarpur. The Governor’s active involvement in the campaign serves as a clarion call for citizens to rise against drug addiction.