Gurugram : Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh called upon the country’s youth to stay away from substance abuse and actively contribute to nation-building, saying that a drug-free young generation is essential for achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
Addressing students at SGT University under the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’, the Minister said that the future of the nation depends on the energy, commitment and character of its youth. He urged young people to reject social evils such as drug addiction and dedicate themselves to building a stronger and more prosperous India.
During the programme, participants collectively listened to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on the importance of a drug-free India and the role of youth in realising the goal of a developed nation. The event was attended by SGT University Managing Trustee Manmohan Singh Chawla, senior university officials, faculty members and students.
Youth Are the Driving Force Behind a Developed India
Speaking on the occasion, Rao Narbir Singh said India is one of the world’s youngest nations, with nearly 65 per cent of its population below the age of 35. He said this demographic advantage places a greater responsibility on young people to contribute to the country’s development.
The Minister expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse among some sections of the youth, attributing it to negative influences and misguided choices. He said addiction not only destroys the future of individuals but also poses a serious challenge to society and national progress.
He urged students to remain drug-free and motivate their friends and peers to overcome addiction. On the occasion, Rao Narbir Singh administered a pledge to the students and youth, encouraging them to work towards building a drug-free India and a developed nation.
Plant a Tree and Nurture It for Five Years
The Minister also highlighted the importance of environmental conservation, saying that Gurugram, being a key district in the National Capital Region (NCR), has a collective responsibility to protect its environment.
Describing the monsoon season as the ideal time for plantation, he appealed to every citizen to plant at least one tree and take responsibility for nurturing it for a minimum of five years. He said only sustained care would ensure that saplings grow into healthy trees capable of providing a cleaner, greener and safer environment for future generations.
Call to Eliminate Single-Use Plastic
Rao Narbir Singh also appealed to young people to completely eliminate the use of single-use plastic and adopt environmentally friendly alternatives such as cloth bags.
He said plastic pollution has become a major environmental challenge and urged the youth to lead by example in promoting sustainable lifestyles. According to the Minister, small behavioural changes adopted by every citizen can collectively make a significant contribution towards creating a cleaner, healthier and pollution-free India.