Youth Affairs Minister urges Durga Puja committees to join 'Nesha-Mukt' Tripura campaign

Agartala, Sep 15, 2023, ENEWSTIME Desk

The Tripura government is taking steps to create awareness among the people about the harmful effects of drug abuse. As part of this initiative, the government has requested the Durga Puja Committees in Tripura to organize the Nesha-Mukt Tripura campaign during the festivals to spread awareness about the impact of drugs on individuals and society as a whole.

The alarming prevalence of drug abuse in the entire Northeastern region, including Tripura, has raised significant concerns, particularly because of its detrimental impact on the younger generation, said Youth and Sports Affairs Minister of Tripura, Tinku Roy.

During a press conference held on Friday, Minister Roy emphasized the state government's ongoing commitment to eradicating drug abuse. Initiatives like "Khelo Tripura Sushtha Tripura" have been introduced to divert youths' focus towards sports and recreational activities, steering them away from various forms of substance addiction.

Minister Roy disclosed that the state's sports department has devised a new strategy to raise awareness among the general public, particularly in the lead-up to the major festival, Durga Puja.

"As Durga Puja approaches, we call upon all clubs, social organizations, Bazar Samitis, and other groups responsible for organizing the festivities to voluntarily promote awareness through various means, including thematic puja pandals, festoons, banners, and more," stated Minister Roy.

In an effort to incentivize participation, Minister Roy announced that these clubs and organizations will be eligible for prizes based on the quality of their awareness campaigns integrated into the puja pandals.

Encouraging active engagement in the 'Nesha-Mukt' Tripura (Drug-Free Tripura) campaign, Tinku Roy stressed, "Implementing this initiative during Durga Puja, which attracts large crowds from different parts of the state, is poised to yield fruitful results in curbing the pervasive drug abuse issue in Tripura."

The initiative underscores the government's commitment to combatting drug abuse and fostering a healthier and drug-free environment for the youth in the region.