New Delhi: Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, conveyed on Saturday that the root cause of destruction is intoxication. He emphasized that distancing ourselves from this harmful influence can significantly enhance our capacity for constructive thinking.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the 'Nasha Mukt Pradesh-Shashakt Pradesh' (Drug-Free State-Empowered State) campaign on the occasion of International Youth Day. During the event, he underlined, "Intoxication stands as the harbinger of destruction. The grip of addiction results in the decline of our youth. The further we distance ourselves from this menace, the more we cultivate a mindset of vitality."

Yogi Adityanath also administered an oath to the youth from various organizations, including NSS and Scouts Guide, urging them to commit to a life free from addiction.

The venue for this gathering was the KD Singh Babu Stadium in Lucknow, where the youth convened at the government's invitation to join the crusade against addiction. Adityanath further accentuated the need to engage the state's nine crore young individuals in this noble campaign, to breathe new life into their aspirations and to mold Uttar Pradesh in accordance with their dreams. He highlighted that the theme of International Youth Day 2023 is 'Green Skill for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.'

"In alignment with this theme, it's our collective responsibility to connect with this initiative, which envisions transforming Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state, into a realm free from addiction and subsequently empowered," he added.

Yogi Adityanath acknowledged the involvement of UNICEF in several state programs. He noted that numerous ailments that have long afflicted the youth and children, such as encephalitis, are now being addressed. The Chief Minister highlighted the effectiveness of collaboration between organizations like UNICEF and both central and state governments in eradicating diseases like encephalitis. He reflected, "If a government-led effort against diseases can attain success, surely solutions can be sought for artificially induced maladies."

The Chief Minister underscored that during their youthful phase, individuals should nurture aspirations aligned with their personal, societal, and national futures. However, succumbing to intoxication renders them hollow, undermining their efficacy. "Their work ethic wanes, creative thinking diminishes, and their engagement in committed campaigns dwindles. Gradually, they become passive, losing the potential to contribute positively to society," he asserted.

Citing instances, CM Yogi stated that many individuals are ensnared by the consumption of tobacco and tobacco products, which wreak havoc on their oral health. He further elucidated the adverse effects on the tongue, lungs, esophagus, and stomach.

To achieve a drug-free state, the State's Youth Welfare Department is undertaking an extensive awareness campaign in collaboration with UNICEF. Concurrently, in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal, a concerted effort is being made within Uttar Pradesh to link its youth with creative programs.

"In every village, a playground should flourish; at the block level, a mini stadium should thrive; and in each district, a full-fledged stadium should stand. These initiatives imbue the youth with a sense of sporting creativity," noted the Chief Minister.

Yogi Adityanath highlighted that academically exceptional youth are being motivated for competitive exams, with arrangements made for their coaching. He stressed the availability of the Mukhya Mantri Abhyudaya Yojana, not only for SC-ST candidates but also for other children.

The Chief Minister affirmed that the state government is striving to equip two crore youth with technology through the provision of tablets and smartphones, with the aim of enhancing their skills. Additionally, efforts are underway to foster self-reliance among the state's youth, thereby contributing to the state and nation's self-sufficiency objectives. The government has also initiated various programs to promote sports and athletes.

"The state government bestows a cash prize of Rs 6 crore to athletes securing a gold medal in the Olympics. Silver medalists receive Rs 3 crore, while bronze medal winners are also rewarded. Team games also attract substantial incentives. The platforms provided by the dual-engine government empower the youth to excel in both education and sports," he further emphasized.

In attendance were Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, Union Minister Kaushal Kishore, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister (Independent Charge) Girish Chandra Yadav, Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, former State Minister and Legislative Council member Dr. Mahendra Singh, along with several other dignitaries, including MLAs and members of the Legislative Council.

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