Satna (MP), Oct 31 Resolving to eradicate substance abuse, women from urban and rural communities across Madhya Pradesh’s Satna district came together on National Unity Day to raise their voices against addiction and pledge to build a drug-free society.
Led by social activist Dr Swapna Verma, the women resolved to intensify awareness campaigns, protect children from substance abuse and mobilise communities against the growing menace of addiction.
The pledge was made during the ‘Matrushakti Sammelan (Women Power Conference)’, organised here as part of a ‘Nasha Mukti’ campaign.
The conference brought together women doctors, lawyers, social workers, educators, homemakers and women from rural communities, reflecting a collective commitment to addressing substance abuse and its damaging consequences for families and society.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Verma expressed concern over the growing prevalence of substance abuse, describing it as a serious challenge not only to individual families but also to society and the nation.
Emphasising the strength and responsibility of women, Dr Verma called upon them to take the lead in protecting the younger generation from addiction.
She urged women to remain vigilant against the illegal sale and distribution of intoxicating substances in their localities and to launch awareness campaigns specifically targeting children and adolescents.
Drawing attention to emerging forms of substance abuse, Verma — the state general secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha — warned that addiction is no longer confined to alcohol, cannabis, tobacco and cigarettes. She expressed concern over newer intoxicating substances that can be difficult to identify, leaving children vulnerable to addiction without their families recognising the early warning signs.
She also cautioned that substance dependence can disrupt education, damage physical and mental health and, in some cases, expose young people to criminal activities.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India, Dr Verma emphasised that a healthy and addiction-free younger generation is essential to the country’s progress.
Women medical professionals and social activists attending the conference welcomed the initiative and highlighted the importance of sustained public awareness, family support and community participation in combating substance abuse.
The women resolved to carry the campaign to every ward and village of Satna through local meetings, community mobilisation and sustained awareness initiatives.
Taking a collective pledge for a drug-free Satna, participants committed themselves to encouraging families to recognise the dangers of addiction and actively participate in preventive efforts.
(PTI News)
