Bengaluru, Jun 12 (UNI) Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot on Thursday made a clarion call to the youth of India to stay away from drugs and embrace yoga and physical activity, stating that their resolve and discipline will determine the country’s future and its path to becoming a developed nation.

“Young people are the foundation of this country. If they take a pledge to stay away from drugs and adopt yoga and physical activity in daily life, India's future will be bright, and we will move closer to becoming a developed nation,” Gehlot said, addressing students and dignitaries at an event organised under the “Yuva Shuddhib Abhiyan” initiative.

The Governor was speaking at a joint programme spearheaded by the Ministry of AYUSH, Narcotics Control Bureau, HSS University, Vasya University, Indian Nurses Association and Addiction, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bhartiya Narsingh Allied Sangh and Disha Board Foundation. The campaign aims to promote a drug-free lifestyle through the integrated approach of yoga, awareness and rehabilitation.

Congratulating all participating organisations, Gehlot lauded the campaign’s alignment with two key international observances — International Yoga Day on June 21 with the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, and the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26.

“In today’s technology-driven and materialistic age, mental stress, unhealthy lifestyles and rising addiction are major concerns. At such a time, the concept of ‘One Earth, One Health’ assumes special importance,” he said, adding that it reflects the interconnectedness of humans, animals, plants and the environment.

The Governor underlined the deep connection between yoga and de-addiction, calling them twin pillars that strengthen both individual and societal well-being. He said yoga not only improves physical and mental health but fosters self-control, which is essential to overcoming addictive behaviours.

“Yoga leads to a peaceful mind, reduces stress and brings joy to life. In contrast, substance abuse weakens both the body and the mind, harms family bonds, and disturbs the social fabric,” he said.

Gehlot also highlighted the role of spiritual counselling and Rajyoga as effective tools in de-addiction efforts, noting that many de-addiction centres have adopted yoga and spirituality as part of their core treatment.

Sharing his own experiences as former Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Gehlot said he had personally visited de-addiction centres and witnessed their work. “Many drug peddlers stand outside schools and colleges and try to trap students by giving drugs for free. Once addicted, they begin charging money and exploit them,” he warned.

The Governor stressed that youth vigilance and family involvement were both crucial. “I urge families to talk to children from an early age and make them aware of the dangers of drugs. Addiction destroys health, breaks families, and ruins lives,” he said.

Praising initiatives such as the MANAS State Helpline and new de-addiction centres, Gehlot said these reflected the government’s commitment not just to law enforcement but also to treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation.

“Our ancient scriptures speak of the importance of yoga. Born on the sacred land of India, yoga is now uniting the world and promoting the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family,” he said.

Calling yoga a blessing for humanity, Gehlot urged all citizens to adopt it in their daily lives and encourage others to do the same. “I have personally experienced the positive impact of yoga and pranayama,” he added.

Appreciating the scientific work being done to validate the effects of yoga, he expressed satisfaction that many programmes were being launched under the theme and that outstanding contributors were being honoured for their work.

Concluding his speech, the Governor appealed to all present to “join hands for the cause of One Earth, One Health” and work collectively to build a healthier, drug-free society.

“Let yoga be the path to a new India. Let youth lead this transformation,” he said. UNI BDN SSP