YINGKIONG : The Sikiing Kojee Charitable Society (SKCS), a non-governmental organisation in Upper Siang district, organised the ‘Nasha Mukti Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ programme at Royal Siang School on Saturday to raise awareness among youth about the harmful effects of substance abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Held under the theme ‘Create, Perform and Inspire’, the programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. It featured cultural performances, skits, poetry recitations, painting and poster-making competitions, enabling students to creatively promote the message of a drug-free society.

Upper Siang District Information and Public Relations Officer Yalik Jerang attended the programme as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, she highlighted the Prime Minister’s vision of achieving a Nasha Mukt Bharat as part of the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 and stressed the crucial role of youth in realising that vision.

She urged students to stay away from drugs, embrace healthy lifestyles and become responsible citizens committed to nation-building. Describing the younger generation as the nation’s greatest asset, Jerang said quality education, discipline and strong moral values were essential for building a peaceful and progressive society. She also administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge to all participants.

Jerang commended SKCS Chairperson Dr Mity Jopir Apang and her team for organising the programme and providing a platform for young people to spread awareness through creative expression.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Apang said the programme was organised in partnership with and under the guidance of the District Youth Officer of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Pasighat. She informed that youth enrolment on the campaign portal was being carried out in mission mode to maximise participation across the district and reaffirmed the Society’s commitment to supporting the Government of India’s vision of a healthy, empowered and drug-free youth population.

Earlier, Royal Siang School teacher P Lama welcomed the participants and urged students to stay away from drugs, uphold strong moral values and focus on becoming responsible members of society.

The programme was attended by SKCS members, invited guests, faculty members of Royal Siang School and a large number of students from Yingkiong and Jengging. (DIPR)