Sri Ganganagar: An awareness programme on drug de-addiction and national service was organised for NCC students at SD Bihani College on the occasion of Bhagat Singh Jayanti as part of the ongoing Drug-Free Sri Ganganagar Campaign, being conducted under the leadership of District Collector Dr Amit Yadav and Superintendent of Police Harishankar.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Jiyani of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment said Bhagat Singh was only 23 when he came forward to sacrifice everything for the country. At an age when many young people today are focused on building their future, Bhagat Singh considered the freedom of the nation greater than his own life and embraced martyrdom with courage.

He said Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice was not merely a chapter in history but a message for India’s youth that whenever an opportunity arises to serve the nation and society, young people should step forward.

Jiyani said Bhagat Singh and his comrades envisioned an India where young people would be aware, educated, courageous and conscious of their responsibilities towards society. He expressed concern that some sections of today’s youth are becoming vulnerable to substance abuse, putting their lives, families and future at risk.

Addressing the students, he said patriotism is not limited to defending the country at the border. Staying drug-free, helping friends stay away from substance abuse, guiding those in need towards treatment and support, spreading awareness in society and protecting one’s family are also important forms of national service.

During the programme, Sahiram and Praveen Kumar administered a drug-de-addiction awareness pledge to the students. The NCC students remembered Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice and pledged to stay away from substance abuse and encourage other young people in their surroundings to do the same.