Assam Governor concludes Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra
Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya concludes the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra in Guwahati, calling for a drug-free Assam.
The fortnight-long Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padayatra, a massive campaign aimed at eradicating drug abuse, reached its grand conclusion on Friday in Guwahati. Led by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, the march culminated in Kamrup(M), bringing together a diverse coalition of citizens dedicated to a drug-free future.
The final leg of the journey saw hundreds of participants, including students, youth volunteers, NCC and NSS cadets, scouts, guides, and ex-servicemen. They were joined by representatives from social organisations, civil society members, and government officials, all united under a single mission: fighting the menace of substance abuse.
A journey across ten districts
The Padayatra was not merely a local event but a wide-reaching movement that spanned across the state. Starting on September 17 from Cachar, the campaign successfully traversed ten key districts:
- Cachar
- Sribhumi
- Dibrugarh
- Tinsukia
- Dhubri
- Barpeta
- Diphu
- Hojai
- Kamrup
- Kamrup(M)
Throughout this journey, the campaign focused on generating widespread awareness regarding the devastating effects of drugs and fostering a sense of collective responsibility among the populace.
Building a value-based society
Addressing a large gathering at the District Library in Guwahati, Governor Acharya emphasized that the Padayatra represented more than just public awareness. He described it as a "collective resolve" of the people of Assam to build a healthy, empowered, and value-based society.
Drawing inspiration from the lives of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, the Governor highlighted the necessity of truth, self-restraint, discipline, and service. He noted that the ideals of both leaders—simplicity, integrity, and dedication to the nation—are essential for building a strong social fabric. "Healthy youth can build a healthy society. Value-based youth can build a value-based society and aware and responsible youth can build a developed nation," the Governor remarked.
A call to action for all sectors
Recognizing that the fight against drugs cannot be won by the administration alone, the Governor issued a call to action for several key groups. He urged parents, teachers, religious and spiritual institutions, the media, the police, and the administration to work in tandem with the youth to prevent drug abuse.
He further stated that the vision of a prosperous, educated, and safe Assam depends heavily on protecting the younger generation from addiction and strengthening the state's human resources. The ultimate goal, he noted, is to contribute to the larger vision of Viksit Assam and Viksit Bharat.
Tributes and pledges
The day held significant commemorative importance as it coincided with Gandhi Jayanti and the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri. Governor Acharya visited Gandhi Mandap to pay floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and planted a sapling to symbolize the nurturing of a healthier future.
To formalize the commitment of the participants, District Commissioner Swapnil Paul administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp pledge. The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Joint Commissioner of Police Ankur Jain and Commissioner GMC Chinmoy Prakash Phukan, alongside various social and administrative leaders.