New Delhi, August 2: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh stated on Sunday that the vision of a developed India by 2047 can only be realized through healthy, disciplined, and drug-free youth. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to protect young people from the evils of substance abuse and to build a strong nation.
The Chief Minister participated virtually in the nationwide launch of the ‘Drug-Free Youth for Developed India Campaign‘ on Sunday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the program through a virtual dialogue with youth across the country from New Delhi.
Speaking at the event held at Manipur University, Khemchand Singh urged the youth of Manipur to stay away from drugs and actively contribute to the development of the state and the nation.
This initiative was organized by the NSS Cell of Manipur University in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
During the nationwide virtual dialogue, the Prime Minister highlighted that as the nation aims for a developed India, it is essential for the youth to remain physically and mentally healthy, full of confidence, and permanently distanced from destructive habits like substance abuse. He encouraged every citizen, especially the youth, to join this movement.
In his address at Manipur University, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh recalled a time when substance abuse was rampant. He shared his personal choice to stay away from drugs to dedicate himself to public service. He encouraged the youth to make similar choices and become responsible citizens.
Expressing concern over the rising incidents of substance abuse, the Chief Minister noted shocking cases of organized networks supplying drugs to youth through various means, revealed through discussions with various NGOs. He assured that the government is committed to intensifying the fight against drug trafficking and protecting youth from the harmful effects of substances.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the state under the Act East Policy, the Chief Minister mentioned that Manipur is on its way to becoming the gateway to Southeast Asia. He informed that the government is working towards establishing and utilizing a railway network to Imphal by December 2028, enhancing connectivity, trade, and economic opportunities with Moreh and neighboring countries.
He stressed that these opportunities can only be fully realized if the younger generation remains free from the scourge of drugs. The Chief Minister further stated that peace is the foundation of development.
Referring to the unprecedented ethnic crisis that has affected the state over the past three years, he appealed to all communities to work together with mutual understanding to restore lasting peace. He reiterated that the government will ensure justice for those responsible for acts of violence while continuing efforts to bridge the trust deficit among communities and facilitate free and safe movement across the state.
–
Leave a Comment