Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], November 23 : Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot launched the "Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan," an anti-narcotic campaign aimed at college campuses, at Raj Bhavan on Saturday.
Organized by the Bharatiya Nurses & Allied Sangh, the initiative seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse among youth, read an official release.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the nation's future. "Youth are the pillars of our society. To build a better and developed India, it is essential to foster a healthy, innovative, and value-based environment for them," he said.
He highlighted that the energy, enthusiasm, and leadership potential of young people are crucial in creating a drug-free and empowered society.

The Governor also stressed the importance of early guidance from parents and teachers in steering young minds toward the right path. "A positive environment plays a vital role in preventing drug addiction. Modern lifestyles, stress, and societal pressures often push individuals toward substance abuse, but awareness must be raised that this is not a solution," he remarked.
Drawing from personal experience, he added, "I have visited many universities and participated in various anti-drug campaigns. Drug addiction is a serious societal issue that affects not just the body but also the mind and social life."
He called upon the younger generation to actively contribute to the campaign and serve as role models by adopting healthy lifestyles. "A drug-free society ensures a healthy and robust future for the coming generations. I commend the Bharatiya Nurses & Allied Sangh, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Narcotics Control Bureau Bangalore Zone, and Disha Bodh Sustainable Community Foundation for jointly organizing this crucial campaign," he stated, urging students and educational institutions to support the initiative.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Jagannath Shastri, State Secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad; Devanand, Assistant Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau, Bangalore Zone; and Jiju Thomas, National Secretary of Bharatiya Nurses & Allied Sangh.