VP Radhakrishnan says Drug-free youth key to Viksit Bharat vision

Vice President CP Radhakrishnan today said that the vision of a Viksit Bharat can only be realised when the youth of the country is drug-free, healthy and purpose-driven. Mr Radhakrishnan said this while addressing Delhi University’s Drug Free Campus Campaign in the National Capital. On the occasion, Mr Radhakrishnan also launched a dedicated e-pledge platform and Mobile App for Drug-Free Campuses.

The Vice President said that the campaign aligns strongly with the government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. He underlined that substance abuse is a social challenge, a public health concern and a threat to the country’s demographic dividend. Mr Radhakrishnan also urged the students to actively participate and take the pledge for a drug-free campus.

Mr Radhakrishnan highlighted that it is the need of the hour for everyone to keep themselves away from drugs. He also stressed the need to rise against drug abuse and spread awareness amongst everyone against the use of drugs. Mr Radhakrishnan said that drugs also spoil the physical and mental health of people.

The Vice President also asserted that the youth are the greatest asset of the country and their talent, innovation and productivity form the backbone of the nation’s economic growth. He added that a drug-free youth is better equipped to acquire skills and foster entrepreneurship, which strengthens the economic progress of the nation.

Mr Radhakrishnan said that drug terrorism is closely linked to narco-terrorism. He said that this business happens at the cost of humanity, and everyone must rise against the drug mafia.

Speaking on the occasion, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasised that the Drug Free Campus Campaign is aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. He also underscored the need for teachers and administrators to create a campus culture which prioritises student well-being.