‘Be Aware. Be Strong. Be Drug Free’: This University Engages Youth in Nasha Mukt Abhiyan

Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram recently organised an interactive sensitisation programme under the nationwide Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan for Viksit Bharat. Oganised by the National Service Scheme (NSS), ASU, Rotaract Club, ASU, and the University Nasha Mukt Abhiyan Committee, the programme aimed to sensitise students and faculty members about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of prevention, awareness and collective action.

The initiative was organised against the backdrop of the recent national launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, with Haryana playing a leading role. ASU joined the movement by directly engaging its youth in dialogue, awareness and commitment towards building a drug-free society.

The programme featured Dr Ashok Kumar Varma, Police Officer, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Haryana, as Chief Guest and Speaker. A President of India Police Medal Awardee for meritorious services, Dr Varma brought valuable professional insights into drug abuse, trafficking, prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation. His interaction highlighted that substance abuse is not merely a law-enforcement issue but also has social, psychological, familial and educational dimensions.

Before the campus interaction, Dr Varma participated in a podcast/interview for Radio Styavani 88.4 MHz, the community radio station of Apeejay Stya University. The interaction extended the campaign’s message beyond the university and highlighted the importance of awareness, prevention and youth participation in creating a drug-free society.

The session commenced with a welcome address by Dr Vijay Kumar, Member Secretary, Nasha Mukt Abhiyan Committee, ASU, and Coordinator, NSS & Rotaract Club, ASU. He welcomed Dr Varma and emphasised the significant role of young people in building a healthy, responsible and developed India. Prof Sanjay Ahirwal, Dean of Student Welfare and Chairperson, Nasha Mukt Abhiyan Committee, subsequently highlighted the responsibility of educational institutions in promoting healthy lifestyles, responsible choices, positive peer relationships, mental and emotional wellbeing, social responsibility and drug-free living.

During the interactive session, Dr Varma discussed the role of NCB Haryana in enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation and collaboration with families, educational institutions and society. He encouraged students to make informed choices, remain alert to behavioural changes among peers and seek appropriate support when required. He also stressed the importance of parents spending quality time with children, maintaining open communication, observing behavioural changes and providing timely emotional support.

Dr Varma further shared information about available support mechanisms, including toll-free support numbers of the Central Government and NCB Haryana, along with his personal contact number for guidance concerning drug-abuse-related issues.

A significant highlight was the Nasha Mukt Oath, administered in Hindi by Dr Varma to students and staff, followed by the English Nasha Mukt Pledge, administered by Prof Sanjay Ahirwal. The collective commitment reinforced the university community’s resolve to stay away from drugs and contribute towards awareness and prevention.

The programme witnessed active participation from students and faculty members and concluded with a group photograph symbolising their collective commitment to a drug-free youth and healthy society. The initiative strengthened ASU’s commitment to creating a drug-free campus and empowering young people to move from awareness to responsible action.

The programme concluded with two powerful messages: “Be Aware. Be Strong. Be Drug Free.” and “Choose Life. Choose Hope. Say No to Drugs.”