Punjab Gov Kataria leads Two-Day Anti-Drug March under ‘Nasha Mukt-Rangla Punjab’ Campaign

The Governor pointed out that while drugs are a problem in themselves, they are also linked to many other issues, the biggest of which is crime.

Jalandhar: Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria today launched a two-day padayatra (foot march) against drugs under the ‘Nasha Mukt-Rangla Punjab’ campaign from the historic village of Beas and called upon women to come forward and fight against this social evil.

Leading the yatra, which began from the house of world-renowned runner Fauja Singh, Mr. Kataria said that the governments are taking extensive actions at their own level to tackle the issue of drugs, but for the complete eradication of drugs, all citizens must work together. He particularly urged women to step forward and oppose drugs.

He stated that drug abuse not only harms a person’s health but also causes immense suffering for their families, with women being the most affected. Mr. Kataria emphasized that women are an important link in society and can play a very effective role in eradicating the problem of drugs.

The Governor pointed out that while drugs are a problem in themselves, they are also linked to many other issues, the biggest of which is crime. A drug addict often resorts to criminal activities to fulfill their addiction.

Calling on people to join the movement against drugs, Mr. Kataria said that no campaign can succeed without the support of the people. He urged them to become active participants in this campaign to create a drug-free future for the coming generations.

This foot march, organized with the support of the Indian Red Cross Society and the joint efforts of social worker and eminent writer Khushwant Singh, concluded today at village Bhathe. The 8-kilometer journey was led by the Governor of Punjab himself, walking the entire distance. On Wednesday, December 11, at 10:30 am, the march will continue from village Bhathe, covering about 7 kilometers, and conclude at Jang-e-Azadi Kartarpur, where a closing ceremony will take place.

 

About 113 runners, including Fauja Singh, also participated in the march, covering approximately one kilometer.

Later, the Governor honored Fauja Singh, the runner. School students joined the walk, holding banners and placards to spread awareness about the dangers of drugs.

Director MHA (Senses and Citizenship) Lalit Jain IAS, Secretary of the Red Cross Society Punjab Shiv Dular Singh Dhillon (Ex-IAS), former Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar, former Information Commissioner and renowned writer Khushwant Singh, village panchayats, social organizations, and students from various schools also participated in the walk.