SHIMLA-31 August, 2026- Governor Kavinder Gupta today exhorted the youth to stay away from drugs and alcohol, saying that only a healthy and responsible youth can contribute effectively towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Governor was addressing the Nashamukt Bharat & Rashtriya Nashamukti Samman 2026 programme organised by the Kashiyana Foundation at the India International Centre, New Delhi.

Shri Gupta said that society must translate its thoughts and concerns into concrete action to create an environment that rejects substance abuse. 'Great people build great nations and greatness comes from strong character, a stable mind, a healthy body and a purposeful life,' he said.

Expressing concern over the growing incidence of drug addiction among youth, the Governor emphasized the need to educate young people about its harmful consequences and strengthen their value system. He said elders must lead by example and themselves abstain from all forms of substance abuse.

The Governor said that strong family systems in ancient times played an important role in nurturing values and character but these foundations were gradually weakening. 'We must begin by imparting strong values to our children within our families only then can we realise the goal of a Nasha Mukt Bharat,' he said.

He lauded the Kashiyana Foundation for its sustained contribution towards the cause of de-addiction and wished the organisation success in its future endeavours.

On the occasion, Governor Kavinder Gupta conferred the Rashtriya Nashamukti Samman 2026 upon NGOs and individuals for their distinguished contribution to social causes, particularly in the field of de-addiction.

Shyam Jaju, Patron, Kashiyana Foundation and senior BJP leader, also addressed the gathering. Founder of Kashiyana Foundation Sumit Ankur Singh highlighted the activities and initiatives undertaken by the organization in the field of de-addiction.

BJP leaders, social activists, senior journalists and members associated with the Kashiyana Foundation were present on the occasion.