CHANDIGARH: The National Commission for Women, New Delhi in the collaboration with Panjab University, Chandigarh, today organised a grand inaugural awareness programme on "Menace of Substance Abuse in Punjab-Uncovering the Burden on Women" at Law Auditorium, PU Campus, here today. Held in the Law Auditorium of Panjab University, the event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, as the Chief Guest.
The program commenced with the national anthem and a tribute to Goddess Saraswati, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Mrs. Meenakshi Negi, Member Secretary of the National Commission for Women, delivered a detailed overview of the program's objectives.
In his keynote address, the Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria expressed grave concern over the escalating drug menace in Punjab. Referring to Punjab as the sacred land of saints and sages, he emphasised that the moral and cultural strength of this land could be harnessed to eradicate the problem. He called for a collective pledge from all stakeholders, urging a grassroots approach to addressing the issue. He stressed the importance of involving youth and women in this movement and appealed for active contributions from all sections of society to achieve the dream of a drug-free Punjab.
Mrs. Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, highlighted the devastating impact of drug abuse on women and families. She remarked that drug addiction not only destroys individual lives but also undermines the fabric of families and communities. She emphasised the need for a robust strategy to empower women and raise awareness to combat the crisis effectively.
Prof. Renu Vig, Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries with a bouquet of flowers. In her brief but impressive address, she assured complete support from Panjab University in the mission to eliminate the drug menace in Punjab. Prof. Y.P. Verma, Registrar of Panjab University, was also present at the event.
The inaugural session was conducted by Prof. Anju Suri from the History Department.
Following the inaugural session, a special discussion with stakeholders was organised in the Seminar Hall of the Golden Jubilee Guest House at Panjab University. Representatives from social organizations, social workers, and community leaders shared their insights during the discussion. The primary goal was to develop effective strategies for implementing the drug eradication campaign at the local level. Detailed discussions were held on raising awareness in rural areas, educational institutions, and workplaces. Member Secretary Mrs. Meenakshi Negi, along with other members of the NCW, offered valuable guidance and suggestions to make the campaign more impactful.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Virender Kumar Negi, Director of the Centre for the Study of Social Inclusion and the event organizer. He assured the members of the National Commission for Women that his department would continue organizing initiatives to address social issues like drug abuse.
More than 1, 200 educators, students, and members of social organizations participated in the day long program. The event was also attended by administrative officials, academicians, research scholars, and other members of Panjab University.