To tackle drug abuse and foster a healthier lifestyle, Haryana is all set to host a month-long Cyclothon event from September 1 to 25. The event will be flagged off by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Karnal on September 1 and will culminate in Yamunanagar, encompassing a series initiatives and rallies, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister V Umashankar said while chairing the meeting with the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) held through Video conferencing here.
“With the firm resolve to tackle the menace of drug abuse and propagate a culture of health and fitness among the people of the state, especially those residing in rural areas, dedicated efforts should be made by the district administration and the allied departments to pave the way for a resounding campaign against the sale and usage of drugs,” added Umashankar.
During the meeting, Umashankar directed the DCs and SPs to ensure active participation from school and college students. The event underscores a collaborative effort involving various departments such as Health, Excise Taxation, Development Panchayat, and Higher Education, each entrusted with a crucial role in its execution, said Umashankar.
The Principal Secretary to CM said that as the central theme of the Cyclothon is combating drug abuse, therefore a unique strategy involving the collaboration of Chemist Associations in drug-prone districts should be planned to create public sentiment against the sale and usage of drugs. He said that under the stewardship of the Public Relations and Culture Department, IT-driven drug awareness should also be done ensuring a widespread and tech-savvy message. “After the Cyclothon an oath will be administered to the participants to stay away from drugs and promote a healthy lifestyle,” said Umashankar.
The Senior IAS officer said that the grand culmination of the Cyclothon on September 25 in Yamunanagar should be a spectacular affair. The Police Department, playing a pivotal role as the nodal agency, will oversee the event's security and logistics. To address the pressing issue of drug abuse, special focus will be directed towards drug-prone areas. Various cultural programmes should be organized to amplify the message, he said.
He said that in areas prone to drug-related issues, there should be a mobilization effort. This would involve assembling a group from the local community during cycle rallies, who would accompany the core team.
“The idea behind this approach is to raise awareness about drug-related problems, promote healthy lifestyles, discourage drug use, and engage in community outreach. The mobilization strategy also aims to foster a sense of community ownership and responsibility in addressing drug-related challenges, “ he added.
The Principal Secretary to CM said that community engagement lies at the heart of this endeavour. Health camps in drug-prone villages, particularly in rural areas should be organized to offer crucial support and information. To ensure wide-reaching awareness, local influencers, singers, NGOs, as well as religious and social organizations should also be collaborated. Notable figures like local MPs, MLAs, and Ministers should also be asked to take active participation in this social cause, he directed.
Special Officer (Community Policing and Outreach) Pankaj Nain said that the Cyclothon's daily rallies, featuring an impressive fleet of 1000 cyclists, should be ensured to start each day on an inspiring note. He said that these rallies will traverse specially planned routes, engaging local communities and spreading the message of fitness and anti-drug awareness. “As Haryana gears up for this monumental Cyclothon, the stage is set for a month of impactful activities, uniting citizens in the fight against drug abuse and promoting a healthier way of life,” said Nain.