Addressing the gathering, Gupta said that the people of Himachal Pradesh were fortunate to live in a state blessed with a pristine environment and clean air, which contributed significantly to a healthy lifestyle. He emphasised the need to preserve and protect the state’s natural environment for future generations.
“Development cannot be accepted at the cost of the environment. Environmental protection and a drug-free society are the foundations of a better future,” he said. Expressing concern over the growing challenge of drug abuse, Gupta lauded the efforts of the HP Police for spreading awareness through innovative outreach programmes.
He said that protecting the younger generation from the dangers of narcotics was a collective responsibility and could only be achieved when every section of society joined hands in the fight against drugs. “Public participation plays a crucial role in the success of any social campaign,” he added.
The marathon, based on the theme “Clean Environment and Chitta-Free Life”, saw enthusiastic participation from people across HP and its neighbouring states. Personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces, students from schools, colleges and universities, senior citizens and specially-abled participants also took part in large numbers.
The primary objective of the event was to create awareness about the menace of drug abuse while promoting environmental conservation, public health and social responsibility. The marathon also served as a platform to educate citizens about the ongoing self-enumeration campaign being conducted by the Census Department.
Highlighting the importance of cleanliness, Gupta urged citizens to adopt cleanliness as a way of life and contribute actively towards building a healthier and more sustainable society. Earlier, Gupta administered a pledge to all participants, encouraging them to remain committed to cleanliness, environmental protection and a drug-free lifestyle.
Additionally, the Governor visited an exhibition organised by the Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change and appreciated the efforts being undertaken to promote environmental consciousness. He also signed the “Harit Himachal and Chitta-Mukt Himachal” campaign wall, reaffirming his commitment to both causes.
Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan; Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari; Sushil Kumar Singla, Secretary, Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change; Director of Census Operations Deep Shikha Sharma; and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
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