SRINAGAR, May 13: Jammu: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Wednesday called upon the youth of the country to become torchbearers of a drug-free, progressive and empowered India.
He was addressing the closing ceremony of Aarohan 2026, a national-level youth festival that brought together over 300 participants from nine States and Union Territories in Jammu and Kashmir.
Lauding the Department of Youth Services & Sports for successfully organising the event, the Minister said Aarohan 2026 had emerged as a vibrant platform showcasing the energy, creativity and leadership potential of India’s youth. He noted that initiatives such as the Young Leaders Dialogue, Cultural Track and Hackathon had helped channel young talent towards innovation and nation-building.
Speaking on the theme “Rise, Shine and Conquer,” Sharma expressed serious concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, calling it one of the most pressing challenges facing society today. He said substance abuse has become a harsh reality affecting schools, colleges and communities across Jammu & Kashmir and the country.
“Drugs do not offer escape; they offer destruction. A moment of curiosity or peer pressure can derail an entire future,” the Minister said, urging youth to protect their lives, ambitions and potential from addiction.
He appreciated the inclusion of drug de-addiction as a key theme in the Aarohan 2026 Hackathon, stating that youth-led innovation and awareness campaigns can play a transformative role in addressing the crisis. He urged participants to act as ambassadors of awareness in their families and communities and support those affected by addiction.
Highlighting the role of sports, Sharma described it as one of the most effective tools to prevent drug abuse. He said sports foster discipline, confidence, teamwork and resilience among young people. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure across Jammu & Kashmir to ensure wider access to opportunities for youth development.
The Minister said the government is expanding de-addiction centres, enhancing awareness programmes in educational institutions and taking strict action against drug networks. However, he stressed that the fight against addiction requires collective participation from families, teachers, communities and youth.
“Real victory will come when society stands united against this menace,” he said.
Calling youth the true strength of the nation, Sharma said India’s future rests on their creativity, determination and service to society. Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he urged young people to dedicate themselves to innovation, nation-building and positive change.
He concluded by encouraging youth to rise above challenges, shine through their talents and contribute meaningfully to building a stronger, healthier and drug-free India, adding that Jammu & Kashmir is increasingly being defined by the aspirations and achievements of its young generation.