Chandigarh, Feb 12 "The Anti-Drug Padyatra is a crucial initiative to raise awareness among youth and the wider community about the dangers of drug abuse. Educational institutions play a key role in shaping responsible citizens, and this march demonstrates the power of collective action by colleges, students, and government authorities in creating a Drug-Free Punjab, said by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor Punjab. Dr Anshu Kataria, President, Punjab Unaided Colleges Association & Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, Rajpura, Near Chandigarh presided over.
Governor Punjab commended PUCA and its member colleges for their active participation and dedication, and he urge all stakeholders to continue working together to safeguard our young generation from the menace of drugs, Governor of Punjab, addressing the closing ceremony of the Anti-Drug Padyatra at DAV College, Abohar, appreciated the active participation of over 250 unaided colleges under the Punjab Unaided Colleges Association (PUCA).
The Governor highlighted the critical role educational institutions play in creating awareness among youth and congratulated PUCA members for their dedication to a Drug-Free Punjab. He also commended the leadership of Dr. Anshu Kataria for his tireless efforts in mobilizing colleges and promoting student welfare across the state.
On the occasion, Sh. V.P. Singh, IAS, Principal Secretary to Governor, Smt. Amanpreet K. Sandhu, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Fazilka, Senior Superintendent of Police, Fazilka, Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Punjabi University Patiala, S. Shivdular Singh Dhillon, IAS (Retd), Secretary & Chief Executive of Punjab State Red Cross , Sh. Randhir Kumar, IPS, ADC(P) To Governor, Sandeep Jakhar, MLA Abohar etc were present
Dr. Anshu Kataria, President PUCA and Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, expressed his gratitude to the Governor and remarked that PUCA has always prioritized student welfare, regulatory compliance, and social responsibility. He stated that the association remains committed to working with government authorities and colleges across Punjab to promote drug-free campuses and ensure holistic development of students.
The event witnessed the participation of around 5,000 attendees, including students, faculty, and PUCA representatives. A special langar was organized for all participants at DAV Campus as part of the closing ceremony.
On the occasion, Aryans Group of Colleges, Abhishek group of colleges, Jain college, Guru Ram Das Malout, Meera College , DAV College Abohar DAV College of Education, Gagan Chugh, Adv Pankaj Beri, Rotary Club Rajpura, Kataria Fondation etc were honoured.