CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Flags Off Drug-Free Uttarakhand Walkathon, Calls on Youth to Lead Anti-Drug Campaign
Chief Minister says the fight against drugs is a shared responsibility of society; urges young people to promote healthy lifestyles and awareness
Dehradun, October 23, 2026: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday flagged off the ‘Drug-Free Uttarakhand Walkathon’ organised by the ONGC Officers Association at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Ground, ONGC, in Dehradun. He also administered an oath to participants to contribute towards building a drug-free Uttarakhand.
The Chief Minister called upon young people and citizens from all sections of society to actively participate in the campaign and spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Dhami said the walkathon was more than just an event; it was an important initiative to promote public awareness and encourage the creation of a healthy, strong and drug-free society. Such initiatives, he noted, help educate people about the consequences of substance abuse and motivate young people to adopt a positive lifestyle.
He appreciated the ONGC Officers Association, its organisers and, in particular, Devendra Singh Bisht for their efforts towards the initiative.
Drug Abuse Threatens Young People’s Future
The Chief Minister said substance abuse affects not only an individual’s health but also their future, family and society. Young people should focus on education, sports and developing their abilities to achieve their ambitions. Falling into substance abuse, however, can undermine their potential and adversely affect their families’ hopes and aspirations.
He stressed that protecting young people from drugs and guiding their energy and talent in the right direction was a collective responsibility.
Describing youth as the state’s greatest strength, Dhami encouraged them to pursue their goals with confidence, discipline and hard work.
Youth Urged to Embrace Sports, Yoga and Healthy Habits
Dhami encouraged young people to make sports, yoga and exercise part of their daily routines. He said positive thinking, good company and a healthy lifestyle could help them build a better future.
He also urged young people to stay away from substance abuse themselves and educate their friends and peers about its harmful consequences.
The Chief Minister emphasised that young people should not remain mere participants in the anti-drug campaign but should emerge as leaders and role models who inspire others through their actions.
Fight Against Drugs Requires Collective Action
The Chief Minister said the fight against substance abuse could not be won through the efforts of the government and police alone. Parents, teachers, social organisations, educational institutions and every section of society must play an active role.
He called for the message of a drug-free society to reach every household and village through schools, colleges, workplaces and sports grounds.
Dhami said the state government was making sustained efforts to make Uttarakhand drug-free. Alongside action against those involved in the illegal drug trade, the government was also focusing on public awareness, de-addiction, treatment and rehabilitation.
He underlined the importance of providing people affected by addiction with proper guidance, counselling, treatment and emotional support from their families. Effective enforcement must be complemented by public awareness and coordinated rehabilitation efforts, he added.
Youth Can Contribute to Uttarakhand’s Development
Dhami said Uttarakhand was not only Devbhoomi, the land of the gods, but also a land of brave warriors, ascetics and rich cultural traditions.
He encouraged the younger generation to carry this legacy forward by achieving new milestones in education, skill development, sports, startups, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The state government’s objective, he said, was to channel the energy of young people towards the development of Uttarakhand and the country while providing them with greater opportunities to develop their talents.
The Chief Minister stressed that the resolve to make Uttarakhand drug-free should extend beyond individual events and become an integral part of people’s thoughts, conduct and everyday lives.
He urged citizens to spread the message, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life,” across the state.
Dhami expressed confidence that collective efforts and public participation would help build a healthy, strong and drug-free Uttarakhand where young people could fulfil their potential and families could look forward to a secure and happier future.
Dignitaries Present
Cabinet Minister Khajan Das, MLA Savita Kapoor, Vice-Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Backward Classes Welfare Council Ashok Verma, Dr. Vikas Loiyalwal and ONGC Officers Association President Devendra Singh Bisht were among those present at the event, along with other dignitaries.
