CM Yogi Adityanath Issues Stern Warning on Smartphone Dangers for Children
In a significant address at the Shri Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Jalore, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a powerful message to parents regarding the perils of smartphone usage among young children. The CM explicitly urged mothers to resist giving phones to their children, even if they cry temporarily, labeling smartphones as a primary contributor to rising cases of suicide and depression.
Health and Developmental Risks Highlighted
Excessive smartphone use poses severe threats to children's well-being, according to Adityanath. He detailed how it harms eyesight, wastes valuable time, weakens cognitive abilities, and dulls intellect. The CM emphasized that many smartphone games push children in negative directions, exacerbating mental health issues.
"If the time spent on smartphones is instead used for reading good books, practising yoga, and exercising, life will become more disciplined and meaningful," Adityanath stated, comparing smartphone overuse to a dangerous addiction.
Broader Advice for Youth and Society
Addressing the youth directly, the CM advised making time for family and reassured them that it is acceptable not to answer phones during meals or prayers. He encouraged learning from failures by identifying reasons and converting them into successes.
Adityanath also warned against drug use, accusing India's enemies of attempting to trap Indian youth in addiction. He asserted that a nation's future depends on its youth moving in the right direction, which leads the country to new heights.
Celebrating India's Unity and Heritage
Elaborating on India's uniqueness, the CM described spiritual sites where sages meditated, symbolizing harmony, such as a lion and cow drinking from the same place. "India is a land that can accommodate differences and unite society. India has taught the world the art of living," he said.
He credited the nation's foundation to sacrifices by warriors, hard work by farmers, enterprise of artisans, and efforts of labourers. When every societal segment contributes, it fosters 'Ek Bharat - Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Excellent India).
Praise for Religious Institutions and Critique of Past Governments
Adityanath praised religious institutions for preserving spiritual traditions and contributing to health, education, and public service. He noted that religion unites society, while casteism weakens social harmony, urging Indians to protect their rich heritage.
Shifting to contemporary politics, the CM lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for steering India toward global power status. He accused previous governments of promoting divisions based on caste, region, and language, whereas Modi has worked to unite the nation and address issues like Kashmir and Naxalism.
Adityanath highlighted that current leadership ensures government scheme benefits reach the poor without discrimination. He contrasted this with past administrations that viewed faith as superstition, while Modi emphasizes faith as central to India's identity and social progress.
Call to Eliminate Social Evils
The CM stressed that India's faith is not only spiritual but also a source of national consciousness. To preserve it, society must eradicate social evils such as:
- Caste discrimination
- Untouchability
- Dowry practices
- Child marriage
- Addiction issues
Adityanath concluded by reflecting on history, noting that invaders succeeded partly due to Indian divisions. "If the country was united, no invader could dominate India," he asserted, reinforcing the need for societal unity and vigilance against modern threats like smartphone addiction.
