Community Unites to Fight the Scourge of Drugs: A Dialogue with Chamba’s Youth
In a powerful community effort, the Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti (HGVS) reached out to the young minds of Chamba to tackle the pressing issue of drug abuse head-on. Engaging in an open and heartfelt dialogue, members of the HGVS district team met with teachers and students from the Government ITI Chamba and Polytechnic College Sarol.
The session was marked by personal appeals and shared concerns. District President, Prof. Vipin Rathore, connected with the students by emphasizing the power of a scientific mindset and how technology can be a positive force in building their futures. Satyawan Pundir, representing the Himachal Forum Against Drug Abuse, spoke candidly about the real and growing dangers of addiction, explaining its devastating impact on health, education, and family life.
The conversation was not one-sided. Students and teachers actively participated, sharing their own observations and experiences. A strong consensus emerged: fighting this menace requires everyone—families, schools, and the youth themselves—to come together.
The discussion went beyond awareness, brainstorming practical steps for community-based action. Pundir made a passionate call to action, urging society to wake up and unite to “break the increasing web of addiction.” He particularly appealed to young people to lead the charge in protecting their own generation.
In a relevant and modern approach, the team also introduced the students to The WHITE Truth, a web series on drug awareness launched by the state’s Chief Minister. They encouraged the youth to engage with its message online, turning awareness into a social movement.
The event concluded on a note of solidarity and hope. HGVS extended its hand, asking for the active partnership of all community sections to build a healthier, drug-free Chamba. The principals of the host institutions expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the importance of such direct community engagement in safeguarding their students’ futures.
