Delhi University took a significant step on Tuesday by launching a dedicated Drug-Free Campus portal and mobile application. The university rolled out a campus-wide campaign against substance abuse. This initiative forms part of a larger national push to create drug-free educational spaces across India.
High-Profile Inauguration
Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan inaugurated the initiative. He called for similar campaigns to be institutionalised across all central higher educational institutions. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood also attended the launch event.
Sustained Efforts for Youth Protection
Radhakrishnan urged sustained and collective efforts to protect young people from substance abuse. He linked the campaign to the broader vision of a Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The Vice-President highlighted that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises mental health, life skills and student well-being.
He stated that initiatives like the Drug-Free Campus drive align perfectly with the policy's holistic approach to education. Radhakrishnan praised Delhi University for combining several key elements in its campaign:
- Awareness programmes
- Counselling support
- Student-led initiatives
- Stakeholder collaboration
He noted that active student participation could help extend the campaign's impact beyond university campuses to families and communities.
Strong Warnings Against Drug Use
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan delivered a stern warning to students about drug use. "Drugs are neither freedom nor rebellion," he declared. Pradhan explained that what often begins as curiosity can end in dependency, poor health and a damaged future.
The minister urged students to seek help immediately if they were struggling with addiction. He emphasised the importance of addressing substance abuse issues proactively.
Educational Institutions as Character Builders
Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood echoed similar views during the event. He stated that educational institutions serve not just as centres for awarding degrees but as spaces for shaping values and character. Sood emphasised the role universities play in developing responsible citizens who contribute positively to society.
The Drug-Free Campus initiative represents a comprehensive approach to tackling substance abuse among students. By combining digital tools with traditional support systems, Delhi University aims to create a safer and healthier educational environment for all its students.
