Faridkot (Punjab): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with giving fresh momentum to the nationwide ‘Drug-Free India’ campaign, saying that protecting young people from substance abuse is essential for building a strong and developed nation.
Addressing a public gathering in Faridkot, the Chief Minister said he was grateful to the Prime Minister for prioritising the fight against drug addiction and creating greater awareness among the youth. He said that when young people remain free from drugs and focus their energy on sports, education and nation-building, they contribute significantly to the country’s progress.
Highlighting Haryana’s achievements in sports, Saini said the state has consistently produced outstanding athletes who have brought laurels to the nation. Referring to the Commonwealth Games, he said seven athletes from Haryana won gold medals, while two secured silver medals and one claimed a bronze medal. Such achievements, he said, are possible only when the younger generation chooses discipline and dedication over substance abuse.
He added that encouraging youth to pursue excellence in sports and other fields is central to the vision of building both a ‘Viksit Haryana’ and a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
The Haryana Chief Minister also criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, alleging that despite promising employment opportunities and decisive action against drug abuse, it had failed to fulfil its commitments during its tenure.
Saini claimed that drug addiction has continued to grow in the state while many young people remain disappointed over unmet employment promises. He further alleged that Punjab’s youth feel betrayed by the government and accused the administration of failing to address their concerns effectively.
Drawing a comparison with the previous Congress government, he alleged that farmers had been let down under successive administrations, adding that the current AAP government had also failed to protect the interests of both farmers and the younger generation.
Calling for political change, Saini said the people of Punjab now aspire to move forward under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He asserted that strict action would be taken against those involved in drug trafficking, stating that Haryana’s approach to combating the drug menace could serve as a model for ensuring a safer and healthier future for the youth.