Nongpoh, August 2: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) on Sunday participated in the nationwide launch of the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva: Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’, a campaign inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from New Delhi to promote a drug-free India through youth participation.
The programme, organised at USTM’s Central Auditorium in Ri Bhoi district, brought together university officials, government representatives, faculty members, NSS volunteers and students to reaffirm their commitment to the national campaign against substance abuse.
Addressing the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India’s youth are the driving force behind the vision of Viksit Bharat and urged them to lead the movement for a Nasha Mukt Bharat. He stressed that building a healthy, disciplined and empowered younger generation is essential for the country’s development and called on educational institutions, families and communities to work together in preventing substance abuse through awareness and collective action.
Among those present at the programme were USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) G. D. Sharma, Ri Bhoi Additional Deputy Commissioner Nipon Hajong, MCS, National Informatics Centre (NIC) District Informatics Officer Jonathan Marbaniang, NIC Network Engineer Wanrapbok Kharshandi, and Director of Medical Administration Prof. (Dr.) A. C. Kataki.
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Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) G. D. Sharma highlighted the university’s commitment to producing socially responsible citizens through quality education, while Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque expressed gratitude to the Governments of India and Meghalaya for including the institution in the nationwide initiative.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Nipon Hajong commended the Centre’s efforts to combat substance abuse and encouraged students to become ambassadors of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan by promoting awareness and motivating others to stay away from drugs.
A Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge was administered during the programme, with students, faculty members, NSS volunteers and officials pledging to remain free from substance abuse and contribute towards building a healthier society.
The participants also watched the Prime Minister’s live address, which underscored the importance of youth leadership in achieving the goal of a developed India.
According to the university, nearly 10,000 students, faculty members, NSS volunteers and staff took part in the programme, reflecting USTM’s continued support for national initiatives focused on social awareness, character development and nation-building.
The event concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to carrying forward the message of a drug-free India and contributing towards the vision of a stronger and developed nation.
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