Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Friday called for transforming the state government's anti-chitta campaign into a people's movement to protect the youth from drug abuse. Addressing a district-level programme at the Savings Hall in Chamba on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, he administered an anti-drug pledge to public representatives, officials, employees and students.
Anti-chitta awareness rally flagged off
Pathania flagged off an anti-chitta awareness rally with large student participation. MLA Neeraj Nayar also attended the event. Describing chitta (heroin) as one of the most dangerous synthetic drugs, Pathania said drug addiction has become a serious national and global challenge.
Collective action needed
He stressed that organised efforts are being made to lure the younger generation into substance abuse, and only collective action involving government, educational institutions, families and society can tackle the menace. “The state government has been giving the anti-chitta awareness campaign the shape of a mass movement since last year. The objective is to create awareness among youth, students and the general public about the harmful effects of drugs and ensure people’s participation in building a drug-free Himachal,” Pathania said.
Parents urged to stay vigilant
Appealing to parents, Pathania urged them to monitor their children’s activities closely and seek timely help instead of concealing problems due to social stigma. “Even one or two instances of consuming chitta can lead to addiction, making it extremely difficult for an individual to recover,” he cautioned.
