Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria launches Logo, Theme Song for ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’
Dr. Satinder Sartaaj made the Brand Ambassador of ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’
Chandigarh, 21st February 2025: Today, the Department of Higher Education, Chandigarh Administration organized a State Level Function for ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’ at Post Graduate Govt.College for Girls, Sector-42, Chandigarh. Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The program began with classical dance presented by students, followed by a skit based on the theme ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh’ and the screening of reels by the winners of inter-college competitions. The logo of ‘Swasth Yuva, Sashakt Yuva’ was launched by the chief during the event. The annual activity calendar of VADA Clubs and the theme song on ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’ were also launched by the chief guest. This dedicated Song will be played regularly on the Swachh Sawari in Chandigarh-symbolically ensuring clean and healthy life style for the citizens of Chandigarh.
The Administrator, UT Chandigarh felicitated the winners of VADA Club activities, Principals and Nodal Officers of VADA clubs of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). He also administered pledge against drugs to all those present in the event. A rally for “Nasha Mukt Chandigarh” was flagged off by the Administrator UT Chandigarh.
In his address, the Administrator UT Chandigarh, Sh. Kataria highlighted the evil of drug menace, emphasizing that it is not just a regional problem but a national crisis. He shared that under the NDPS Act, Punjab has the conviction rate of 80 to 85 percent, which is highest in the entire country. He also acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the current wave of synthetic drugs, describing them as more life-threatening than traditional intoxicants and drugs.
The Administrator UT Chandigarh, Sh. Kataria said that spreading awareness and rehabilitation are very crucial in battle against drugs. He batted for active participation from all stakeholders, especially the families, teachers, educational institutions, and, most importantly, the youth. He said that we all must unite in resolve and work collaboratively to eradicate drug abuse from society, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for all students. Sh. Kataria urged the students that, apart from studies, they should engage themselves in creative and productive activities like sports, music, dance, painting etc. so as to stay away from stress and channelize their energy in a positive direction.
The Brand Ambassador of ‘Nasha Mukt Chandigarh Abhiyaan’, Dr. Satinder Sartaaj, a renowned singer and actor, emphasized the role of songs in influencing the youth. He motivated everyone to aspire for a drug-free environment.
Chandigarh Administration is committed to raise awareness amongst the young stakeholders, and regularly organizes various inter college activities to promote healthy life style and nation building. VADA clubs have been established in higher education institutions across all the colleges in Chandigarh by the Department of Higher Education in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare, Women and Child Development. These clubs actively engaged in various activities to create awareness among the students about the dangers of substance use and promote zero tolerance policy with regard to drug Abuse. Last month, the Chandigarh Administration has also launched the standard operating procedures (SOPs) along with the checklist for declaring Higher education institutions drug free campuses.
The event concluded with a strong commitment from all participants to intensify efforts in combating drug abuse. A collective resolve was made to strengthen awareness campaigns and work collaboratively to create a drug-free society.
Present during the occasion were Sh. Vivek Pratap Singh, Principal Secretary to Governor, Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, Education Secretary UT Chandigarh; Sh. Rubinderjit Singh Brar, PCS, Director of Higher Education UT Chandigarh; Dr. Richa, HCS, Additional Director of Higher Education; Sh. Rajiv Tewari, Director Public Relations; Dr. Nemi Chand, State Liaison Officer; Principals of Colleges; VADA Club Nodal Officers; and NSS In-Charges of Chandigarh Colleges.
