Foundation Day of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, in conjunction with Nasha Mukt Bharat Conclave and the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

On the occasion ofthe Foundation Day of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Conclave, dignitaries sharing the dais with me, Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot Ji; Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar Ji: Hon’ble Governor of Andhra Pradesh, (Retd.) Justice Syed Abdul Nazeer Ji; Hon’ble Minister for Medical Education, Government of Karnataka, Dr. Sharanprakash R. Patil Ji; Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, Shri U.T. Khadeer Fareed Ji; Vice Chancellor of the University, Dr. Bhagavan Ji; and other dignitaries.

At the outset, I extend my warm greetings and congratulations to the university community on its Foundation Day Celebrations. Over the years, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences has played a vital role in strengthening health education, research, and public health services, contributing immensely to the well-being of society. It has played a transformative role in shaping generations of healthcare professionals who serve our nation with dedication.

Today, as we celebrate the Foundation Day of this distinguished institution, we are reminded of the profound role that universities play in national life. Universities are not merely centres of learning. They are institutions that shape the character, values, aspirations, and destiny of a nation. They nurture critical thinking, scientific temper, ethical conduct, and social responsibility.

Today’s Conclave addresses an issue that has crossedall barriers ofgeography, age, gender, and socio-economic status—the challenge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. It is particularly significant that this conclave is being held in the context of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed on 26th of June every year. This day reflects the global commitment to confronting one of the most serious public health and social challenges of our time. It is a challenge that affects individuals, families, communities, and nations. Scientific evidence clearly demonstrates that substance use disorders are treatable health conditions. Therefore, our response must move beyond stigma and judgment toward prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, and re-integration.

The vision of a "Nasha Mukt Bharat" is not merely the absence of drugs. It is the presence of healthy choices, informed decisions, supportive families and resilient communities. It is about empowering individuals, especially our youth, to realize their full potential, free from the burden of addiction.

Bharat is home to one of the world’s youngest populations. This demographic strength can become a powerful engine of progress when our young people are healthy, educated, and empowered. However, substance abuse threatens not only individual health but also educational attainment, productivity, social cohesion, and national development. Every young life lost to addiction represents a loss of human potential and a setback to our collective aspirations. As Bharat advances towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, articulated by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji, our success will also be measured by the health, character, and well-being of our citizens. A developed nation requires healthy minds, healthy bodies, and healthy communities. I have been strongly advocating this fight against drugs since 2004. At that time, I had undertaken a 19,000 kilometer Rath Yatra in Tamil Nadu over a period of 93 days to press for issues which included the fight against narcotic drugs.

Healthcare institutions and universities have a unique responsibility in this fight against drugs. As future doctors, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, public health experts, and researchers, students of this university will be at the fore-front of addressing substance use disorders. They will not only treat patients but also shape public awareness, influence policy, and contribute to evidence-based solutions.

I urge our academic institutions to continue strengthening research on addiction medicine, mental health, behavioural sciences, and community-based interventions. We need innovative approaches that integrate technology, counselling services, peer support networks, and public health outreach. Evidence must guide action, and research must inform policy.

At the same time, prevention remains our most effective strategy. Awareness campaigns must begin early. Schools, colleges, families, community organizations, healthcare institutions, law enforcement agencies, and civil society must work together to create environments that discourage substance abuse and promote healthy lifestyles.

Parents and families deserve special recognition in this effort. Strong family bonds, open communication, and emotional support often serve as the first line of defence against substance abuse. Equally important is creating spaces where individuals struggling with addiction feel safe to seek help without fear of discrimination or exclusion. As Chancellor of three Central Universities, I have been laying emphasis on Drug free Campuses. In this direction I had inaugurated the Drug Free Campus Campaignof the University of Delhi and an e-pledge platform on the 13th of January this year. Since then, more than 53,000 students have taken the pledge against substance abuse. For the new students joining the university it has been made mandatory to take the pledge.

The fight against illicit trafficking is equally important. Drug trafficking networks fuel crime, undermine public health, and threaten social stability. Combating these networks requires strong institutions, effective enforcement, international cooperation, and community vigilance. Yet, while we act firmly against traffickers, we must respond humanely to those affected by addiction.

Today’s conclave provides an important platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action. Let us use this opportunity to share knowledge, learn from best practices, strengthen partnerships, and develop solutions that are practical, sustainable, and people-centered. I congratulate the organizers, the university leadership, faculty members, students, and all stakeholders who have made this event possible. I wish the conclave every success.

As we celebrate the Foundation Day of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, let us commit ourselves to advancing health, knowledge, and social responsibility. Let us also pledge to create a future

• where every young person has the opportunity to thrive,
• where healthcare systems provide compassionate support, and
• where communities stand united against the menace of substance abuse.
• Jai Hind!
• Long Live Mother Bharat!

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