Governor flags off anti-drug rally in Chamba’s Maihla

Drug-free life key to preserving culture, says Shiv Pratap Shukla

Chamba: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Wednesday (April 23, 2025) flagged off a large-scale anti-drug awareness rally in Chamba district’s Maihla, stressing that a society free of substance abuse is essential for safeguarding cultural heritage.

The rally was part of a broader awareness initiative held at the local sports ground, which also included a Kisan Mela (farmers’ fair) and a de-addiction awareness camp.

Organised by Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, in collaboration with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)-Chamba, the event drew participation from hundreds of school students. Chanting slogans against drug use, the students sent out a powerful message of change and vigilance.

Drug abuse a social crisis, not just personal: Governor

Addressing the gathering, Governor Shukla remarked that drug addiction was not merely a personal issue but a serious social concern.

“The fight against drugs must begin at home and requires consistent and collective efforts,” he stated. “As long as the demand for drugs continues, the supply chain will persist.”

Expressing deep concern over the alarming rise in drug-related cases, the Governor highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has seen a 340% increase in NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases over the past decade.

“Synthetic drugs like ‘chitta’ have entrenched themselves even in our hill state,” he added.
Governor Shukla praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and said it had inspired a large-scale de-addiction campaign across the state, urging citizens to actively participate.

He also commended the efforts of the university and district administration in addressing this growing crisis.

MLAs, MP echo call for action

Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan lauded the Governor’s initiative, calling it a step in the national interest. Emphasising the critical role of families, he said, “Parents must stay vigilant and those already affected by addiction must receive timely treatment.”

Chamba MLA Neeraj Nayyar welcomed the Governor and stressed the importance of “good parenting” and community awareness. He mentioned that the state legislature has passed strict laws to combat drug abuse.

Bharmaur MLA Dr Janak Raj highlighted the scientific and medical effects of drug abuse on the human body and mind, urging the public to spread awareness and prevent substance misuse.

Cultural Performances and Expert Voices

Earlier in the day, Dr Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, Vice-Chancellor of Dr YS Parmar University, welcomed the Governor and reiterated that the fight against drugs was more urgent than ever as addiction had infiltrated households across the state.

The event also featured powerful street theatre by the Eklavya Art Group comprising police personnel who performed a moving nukkad natak (street play) highlighting the dangers of addiction.

Other dignitaries who addressed the gathering included Dr Parvinder Sheron, Director of ATARI Zone-1-Ludhiana, and senior police official Abhimanyu. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Dharmendra Kumar, Head and Senior Scientist of KVK-Chamba.

Also present were the Governor’s Secretary CP Verma, Chamba Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal, Superintendent of Police Abhishek Yadav and several other notable officials.

Subhash Mahajan