SHIMLA-17^th June, 2025-To spread awareness against the drug abuse, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla called upon for uprooting this social evil during his visit to the remote Dodra Kwar region of Shimla district. While interacting with the people, the Governor emphasized the need for vigilance and community participation in the fight against drug abuse. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla also accompanied the Governor.

It is for the first time that a sitting Governor has visited the Dodra-Kwar region, and was given a warm traditional welcome by the people. A cultural programme was organized in his honour in Dodra and in Kwar. The Governor also relished local cuisine and appreciated the warm hospitality given to him.

Despite heavy rain the villagers had gathered from far-flung region of the area at the Jal Shakti Guest House in Kwar, with whom the Governor had long interaction on the issue besides listening to their grievances.

Addressing the gathering, he said, “Drug traffickers were now targeting innocent rural youth. It was a matter of concern and we have to save our youth from the clutches of drug abusers who have adopted a new modus operandi shifting from traditional substances to synthetic psychotropic drugs.

Referring Himachal as both Devbhoomi and Virbhoomi, the Governor said that the drug menace threatens the identity of the state. “That is why I am personally visiting even the remotest corners to awaken society and to inspire a collective response,” he remarked.

He praised the efforts of local MLA Mohan Lal Brakta, who has committed to organize awareness drives throughout his constituency. The Governor especially appealed to women to take a lead in this mission. “Women have the will to bring positive changes in the society and their involvement will make this campaign more effective,” he said.

Later, the Governor flagged off a rally of local school children carrying anti-drug placards sending a strong message of awareness against drugs.

Earlier, MLA Mohan Lal Brakta welcomed the Governor and expressed gratitude for his visit to such a remote area for a noble cause. “It is for the first time that a Governor has reached here with such a conviction. We are fully committed to taking this campaign forward,” he remarked.

Secretary to Governor C.P. Verma, Additional Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Verma, SDM Dharmesh Kumar, Panchayat representatives, members of the Block Development Committee, Mahila Mandals and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.