Shimla, June 5: On the occasion of World Environment Day, a mini marathon aimed at anti-drug awareness and environmental cleanliness was held at the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla. The event was inaugurated by Himachal Pradesh Governor, Kavinder Gupta, who flagged off the marathon.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Police, the Department of Environment, Science, Technology, and Climate Change, and the Directorate of Census Operations. Its primary goal is to raise awareness among youth and the general public about the harmful effects of drugs, particularly ‘chitta’, while promoting a clean environment and a healthy lifestyle.
A large number of participants, including police personnel, school students, youth, senior citizens, and local residents, gathered at the Ridge Ground, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm. The marathon featured a 10-kilometer mini marathon and a 3-kilometer dream run. Through this initiative, the message of drug-free living, youth empowerment, and environmental protection was spread across the state.
Representatives from various government departments, educational institutions, NGOs, women’s organizations, and sports bodies also participated in the event. The program included awareness messages, cultural performances, and activities aimed at inspiring people towards a drug-free society and a clean environment.
During the event, Governor Kavinder Gupta emphasized that the mini marathon’s purpose is to raise awareness about a drug-free society and a clean environment among youth and the general public. He congratulated the police and environmental departments for the successful organization and urged all community members to participate in the census.
Shimla Mayor Surendra Chauhan stated that, following Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s directives, events like the marathon are being promoted to raise awareness against drug abuse among youth. He noted that many young people fall into the trap of addiction for various reasons, and it requires a collective effort from society, the government, and families to help them escape. The mayor highlighted the participation of thousands of school children and youth in the 3-kilometer and 10-kilometer runs, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for the campaign. He added that sports and physical activities instill new energy, positive thinking, and self-confidence in youth, keeping them away from vices like drug abuse.
Chauhan also announced that, on World Environment Day, Chinar saplings would be planted in Shimla and surrounding areas, with a target of planting 500 trees this year to raise awareness about environmental conservation and enhance green cover. He expressed concern over population issues, noting that the growth rate in Himachal Pradesh is significantly lower than in other states, with declines observed in several areas. He stressed the need to strengthen family and social values to ensure balanced development in the state. The mayor concluded that increasing public participation in issues like environmental protection, drug de-addiction, and healthy lifestyles is crucial for societal change.
Ansh Sharma, a student participating in the mini marathon, remarked that such events inspire youth to stay away from drugs. He highlighted that drugs ruin not only individuals but entire families, urging young people to avoid all forms of addiction. He emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, engaging in sports, and receiving family support, calling on everyone to contribute to building a drug-free society.
Local resident Sunny, who also participated, stated that “Health is Wealth” is not just a saying but a vital life mantra. He encouraged everyone to incorporate regular running, exercise, or some form of physical activity into their daily routines. Sunny praised the government’s initiative to link the anti-drug awareness campaign with the marathon and environmental conservation, believing it will enhance awareness about health, fitness, and a drug-free life among all societal segments.
Ajay Thakur, a national kabaddi player and DSP of Himachal Pradesh Police, delivered a message to youth about staying away from drugs and embracing sports. He noted that the marathon featured both 10-kilometer and 3-kilometer runs, attracting participants not only from Himachal but also from other states. He expressed pride in Himachal for hosting such large-scale events, with over 200 participants in this marathon.
Thakur emphasized that through this event, a positive message is being conveyed to youth to abandon drugs and make sports a part of their lives. He called for other departments to regularly organize similar programs to provide youth with opportunities to showcase their talents and inspire better performances. He also highlighted the importance of sports competitions in motivating both winners and participants to improve.
Thakur made a special appeal to parents, urging them to pay close attention to their children, as addiction often begins in adolescence. He advised parents to monitor their children’s behavior, friend groups, and daily routines, and to engage schools in regular discussions about these issues.
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