Subhash Mahajan
Purthi (Chamba): A special awareness lecture on drug de-addiction was organised at Shaheed Deen Nath Government Senior Secondary School, Purthi, on July 15, 2025, as part of a broader campaign on the ill effects of substance abuse. The session was conducted by Head Constable Pankaj Kumar (No. 77) from the Purthi Police Post.
In his impactful address, Head Constable Pankaj Kumar elaborated on the harmful consequences of drug abuse, focusing on substances such as alcohol, tobacco, cannabis (charas/ganja), opium, and synthetic drugs like heroin (commonly known as “chitta”).
He emphasized that drug addiction not only deteriorates an individual’s physical health but also severely affects their mental well-being, family life, and social standing.
Kumar expressed concern over the rising number of heroin (chitta) cases in the state, particularly among the youth, including school and college students. He urged the students to stay away from intoxicants, choose their friends wisely, utilize their time productively, and develop a positive outlook toward life.
He described addiction as a social evil that requires the collective vigilance and awareness of every citizen to overcome. He further advised students to remain alert to the signs of substance misuse in their surroundings and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
In addition to the discussion on narcotics, Head Constable Kumar also addressed the growing threat of cybercrime and online fraud, educating students on how to protect themselves in the digital space.
At the conclusion of the session, all students and teachers took a pledge to abstain from drug use and contribute to building a drug-free society. The event was lauded for being informative, engaging, and deeply motivating, leaving a lasting impression on the young minds present.
Such initiatives are essential in strengthening school-based preventive measures and promoting responsible citizenship among the youth, especially in the remote and tribal regions of Himachal Pradesh like Purthi.
