Chandigarh, May 31 – On World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), Haryana Chief Minister, Mr. Manohar Lal, flagged off the Nasha Mukt Bharat Rath Yatra from his residence here today. He stressed the need to shield the youth of the state from drug abuse. It is crucial to raise awareness about the destructive consequences of drug addiction, so that people themselves can avoid it and discourage others from falling into its grip, he added.

Bal Yogi Mahant Charan Das Maharaj graced the occasion with his presence while Publicity Advisor in Information, Public Relations and Languages department, Mr. Tarun Bhandari also attended the event.

Mr. Manohar Lal highlighted that the yatra would inspire positive thinking as it traverses different areas, motivating individuals to break free from the clutches of addiction and also enlightening others. He strongly emphasized the importance of collective efforts in eradicating the menace of drugs. Expressing deep concern for the younger generation, who are increasingly succumbing to the destructive influence of drugs, the Chief Minister stressed that safeguarding the youth from such evils is paramount in the endeavor to build a strong society and nation.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude towards social and religious organizations for their significant contribution to overcome drug abuse in the state. He urged them to continue their efforts in this noble cause. As part of this initiative, the Yuva Jagriti Evam Jan Kalyan Mission Trust Bhiwani is organizing the Jansandesh Rath Yatra, aimed at overcoming the drug menace across Haryana and promoting water and environmental conservation as well. The campaign is expected to effectively raise awareness among the public.

The convener of the mission, Bal Yogi Mahant Charan Das Maharaj said that Rath Yatra commenced in Haryana with a focus on spreading awareness about drug abuse, water conservation, and environmental preservation. He pledged to cover all districts of the state and reach out to youth groups, gram panchayats, religious institutions, and educational establishments, with the objective of keeping the younger generation away from drugs. Following the inauguration of the Jansandesh Rath Yatra, Chief Minister, Mr. Manohar Lal felicitated Bal Yogi Mahant Charan Das Maharaj and the social workers leading the yatra, presenting them with patkas and mementos.