Ambitious Initiative for Drug Eradication: A Strong Campaign by State Government
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Shimla, Apr 12
· Sports competitions to be organized at block, district and state levels
Youth are the driving force of inclusive development and national progress. Under the leadership of the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state government has taken several significant steps to ensure a bright future for the younger generation and to build a drug-free empowered society.
To protect youth from drug abuse and substance addiction, the state is promoting a strong sports culture. A comprehensive plan has been prepared to organize the “Khelo Himachal – Chitta Mukt Abhiyan” in the financial year 2026–27. The objective of this campaign is to steer youth away from drugs and encourage discipline, healthy competition and a positive lifestyle through sports.
Under this initiative, sports competitions will be organized at block, district and state levels with an estimated budget of Rs. 12 crore. Popular games such as volleyball, kabaddi and cricket will be included. Around 50,000 youth in the age group of 15 to 30 years are expected to participate. A detailed sports calendar is also being prepared by the departments of Rural Development, Youth Services & Sports, Police and district administration.
The state government is also adopting a compassionate policy for youth trapped in addiction, aiming to reintegrate them into mainstream society. De-addiction and rehabilitation centers are being operated across the state. A modern de-addiction and rehabilitation center is under construction at Kotla Barog in Sirmaur district at a cost of Rs. 20 crore. This facility will include a library, gymnasium, sports activities and skill and vocational training.
Additionally, provisions have been made to establish an observation home and a special home near this center with a budget of Rs. 2 crore in the 2026–27 financial plan. Children involved in drug trafficking will be placed in observation homes during trial proceedings.
The anti-drug campaign initiated by the Chief Minister against “Chitta” has now taken the form of a mass movement. The Anti-Chitta Walkathon organized across the state witnessed enthusiastic public participation. Several strong measures are also being implemented to curb drug trafficking. To strengthen the campaign, 1,000 additional constables will be recruited in the Himachal Pradesh Police Department.
