Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Monday stressed the responsibility of teachers and parents to periodically educate students about the ill-effects of social media, cybersecurity, and moral values. He spoke at Sambodha Tibetan School in Chhota Shimla during celebrations for the 91st birthday of the Dalai Lama, where he was the chief guest.
Social Media Misuse and Negative Trends
Singh highlighted that the misuse and irresponsible use of social media is giving rise to many negative trends in society, with effects visible across the country and in Himachal Pradesh. He said, “A school is the place where the foundation of a child’s personality, thinking and life values is laid. Therefore, teachers and parents should make students aware about the bad effects of social media.”
Call for Regular Awareness Campaigns
The minister urged the school administration to conduct regular awareness campaigns so students can understand the difference between right and wrong. Referring to a recent shooting incident at a school in Shimla, he said such incidents are a matter of concern for society and guiding youth in the right direction is the need of the hour. He also emphasised teaching students about environmental protection, ecosystems, and forests from the school level.
Felicitations and Health Campaign Launch
During the event, Singh felicitated meritorious students and launched a Hepatitis-B screening campaign. He announced Rs 31,000 for groups that presented cultural programmes.
Dalai Lama’s Contribution to Himachal’s Identity
Speaking about the Dalai Lama, Singh said, “Himachal has gained a distinct identity worldwide because of the Dalai Lama. The historic decision by India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, to grant the Dalai Lama asylum in India symbolises the liberal traditions of humanity and Indian culture.” He recalled the special relationship between his father, former six-time Chief Minister late Raja Virbhadra Singh, and the Tibetan spiritual leader, noting that the Dalai Lama personally released his father’s biography in Dharamsala in 2017.
