S Gopal Puri
KANGRA — The battle against drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh moved from the administrative corridors to the cricket pitch today. Under the visionary theme of “Nasha Chhodo, Khel Se Judo” (Quit Drugs, Join Sports), a high-energy friendly cricket match was held in Kangra, breathing new life into Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s state-wide ‘Chitta-Free Himachal’ mission.
The event featured a unique face-off between the Jal Shakti Department, led by Chief Engineer Deepak Garg, and a team of the region’s prominent academicians. While the scoreboard kept ticking, the real victory was the powerful message of health and resilience sent to the youth of the state.
A Unified Front Against Addiction
CM Sukhu has envisioned a society where citizens from every walk of life—engineers, teachers, and officials—act as torchbearers for a drug-free generation. This match served as a living testament to that community-driven approach.
Speaking on the sidelines of the match, Chief Engineer Deepak Garg emphasized that the fight against ‘Chitta’ (synthetic drugs) requires more than just enforcement; it requires engagement.
“Sports is the greatest deterrent to addiction. When we play, we build discipline and a sense of purpose. Our aim today is to show the youth that true ‘highs’ come from physical achievement and teamwork, not from substances that destroy families,” Garg stated during a special interview.
Key Highlights of the Campaign Event
- Diverse Participation: The event bridged the gap between government officials and the education sector, showcasing a united front.
- The Message: “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” was the echoing sentiment throughout the Kangra sports ground.
- Community Impact: Local youth turned up in large numbers to witness their mentors and officials leading by example.
Why This Matters
The ‘Chitta-Free Himachal’ resolution is a cornerstone of the current administration’s social policy. By integrating sports into this mission, the state is looking to provide constructive outlets for the energy of the youth, ensuring that the “Devbhoomi” remains pure and prosperous.
The match concluded not just with trophies, but with a collective pledge by all participants to monitor and mentor the youth in their respective circles, ensuring the CM’s vision reaches every household in Himachal.
