Bengaluru : Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday urged educational institutions, families, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies and civil society to work together to eliminate substance abuse, saying that the campaign for a Nasha Mukt Bharat must begin with individual responsibility and grow into a nationwide movement.
Addressing the Nasha Mukt Bharat Conclave, organised by Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Disha Bodh Foundation during the university’s 31st Foundation Day celebrations at Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, the Vice President highlighted the far-reaching impact of drug addiction on society.
Substance Abuse a Threat to National Progress
Radhakrishnan said drug abuse not only affects individual health but also undermines education, productivity, social harmony and the country’s overall development.
Congratulating RGUHS on its Foundation Day, he praised the institution for its contribution to medical education, research and public health, and for producing skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to serving the nation.
Youth Urged to Lead Anti-Drug Campaign
Expressing satisfaction over the large number of students who pledged to make Bengaluru, Karnataka and eventually the entire country drug-free, the Vice President said a Nasha Mukt Bharat is about encouraging healthy lifestyles, informed choices, supportive families and resilient communities.
He stressed that people should remain in control of their own minds, warning that addiction takes away an individual’s ability to lead a meaningful life.
Healthcare Professionals Have a Key Role
Describing every young life lost to addiction as a loss to the nation, Radhakrishnan urged future doctors, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, researchers and public health professionals to become ambassadors in the fight against substance abuse.
He encouraged them to contribute through awareness campaigns, treatment, research and evidence-based policymaking to address the growing challenge of addiction.
Greater Research and Technology Needed
The Vice President called for expanded research in addiction medicine, mental health, behavioural sciences and community-based interventions, emphasising that public policy should be guided by scientific evidence.
He also highlighted the importance of using technology, counselling services and peer support networks to improve prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
Focus on Drug-Free Educational Campuses
Reiterating his commitment to drug-free educational institutions, Radhakrishnan noted that as Chancellor of three Central Universities, he has consistently advocated for campuses free from substance abuse.
He referred to the Drug-Free Campus Campaign and the e-Pledge platform launched earlier this year at the University of Delhi, saying the initiative has helped strengthen awareness and promote a healthier campus environment.
Pulse Polio Drive and Felicitation Ceremony
During the event, the Vice President administered polio vaccine drops to infants under Karnataka’s National Pulse Polio Drive.
He also felicitated former Vice-Chancellors of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in recognition of their contributions to the institution’s growth and development over the years.
The programme was attended by Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice (Retd.) Syed Abdul Nazeer, Karnataka Ministers Dr. Sharan Prakash R. Patil and U.T. Khader Fareed, RGUHS Vice-Chancellor Dr. Bhagavan, along with several other dignitaries.