Shimla: Workshop Unites 41 NGOs in Fight Against Drugs, HGVS Shows the Way
A two-day workshop against drug abuse, organized under the banner of the Himachal Forum Against Drug Abuse (HFADA), concluded at Mashobra on Friday with a strong message—Himachal’s fight against drugs must become a collective mission.
Out of 55 member organizations, 41 actively participated, reflecting a growing resolve among NGOs to take the battle beyond rhetoric and into real action.
“Drug addiction has many layers—family environment, peer influence, education pressure, and even employment stress. Each addict is a separate case, and each recovery needs a tailored approach,” said Vijay Kumar from the State Resource Centre, Gunjan.
Prof. Sachin added, “We cannot treat drug abuse as only a medical issue. The social and psychological dimensions are equally critical and must be addressed together.”
HFADA president Deepak Sanan urged NGOs and citizens to treat the campaign like a mass movement: “Just like literacy and Swachh Bharat, this fight needs to be run in mission mode with responsibility shared across every section of society.”
Pankaj Pandit underlined the urgency: “The problem is evolving, and so must our solutions. Local innovations and grassroots strategies are key.”
A major highlight was the commitment of the Himalaya Gyan Vigyan Samiti (HGVS). State secretary Satyawan Pundir said:
“This challenge is huge, but not impossible. Political will, administrative support, and voluntary action together can create change.
HGVS and other groups will now focus on schools, parents, elected representatives, and rural institutions to build awareness at the root level.”
The Una Model and peer mentorship initiatives—already recognized nationally—were discussed as models to replicate in other districts.
The closing session saw strong government support, with Social Justice & Empowerment Department officials including Additional Director Dr. Bhavna, Deputy Director Satish Sharma, and District Welfare Officer Kapil Sharma pledging collaboration with NGOs to implement the annual anti-drug plan.
The workshop ended with a shared roadmap and renewed determination, showing that while challenges remain, Himachal has a committed force ready to fight for its youth and future.
#HGVSLeadingTheWay #DrugFreeHimachal #UnitedForYouth #HGVSOnGround #HopeAgainstDrugs
