Himachal governor flags off mini marathon on World Environment Day
Shimla, June 5
Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta today flagged off a Mini Marathon from the historic Ridge Ground, Shimla, on the occasion of World Environment Day.
The event was jointly organised by the Himachal Pradesh Police, Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change, and the Census Directorate, Himachal Pradesh.
The marathon was based on the theme "Clean Environment and Chitta-Free Life" and witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states. Personnel from Central Armed Police Forces, students from schools, colleges and universities, senior citizens and specially-abled participants also took part in large numbers.
The primary objective of the event was to create awareness about the menace of drug abuse while promoting environmental conservation, public health and social responsibility. The marathon also served as a platform to educate citizens about the ongoing Self-Enumeration Campaign being conducted by the Census Department.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the people of Himachal Pradesh are fortunate to live in a state blessed with a pristine environment and clean air, which contribute significantly to a healthy lifestyle. He emphasised the need to preserve and protect the State's natural environment for future generations.
The Governor appreciated the overwhelming enthusiasm shown by participants and remarked that such public involvement reflects a growing commitment towards environmental protection and social causes.
He said, "Development cannot be accepted at the cost of the environment. Environmental protection and a drug-free society are the foundations of a better future."
Expressing concern over the growing challenge of drug abuse, the Governor lauded the efforts of the Himachal Pradesh Police for spreading awareness through innovative outreach programmes. He said that protecting the younger generation from the dangers of narcotics is a collective responsibility and can only be achieved when every section of society joins hands in the fight against drugs.
"When every section of society works shoulder to shoulder, Himachal Pradesh can certainly become a drug-free state," he said.
The Governor further observed that public participation plays a crucial role in the success of any social campaign. He appreciated the efforts of the organising departments for ensuring the involvement of people from all walks of life and expressed confidence that such initiatives would yield positive and lasting results.
Highlighting the importance of cleanliness, Gupta said that the habit of maintaining cleanliness must begin at the individual and family level. He urged citizens to adopt cleanliness as a way of life and contribute actively towards building a healthier and more sustainable society.
Earlier, the Governor administered a pledge to all participants, encouraging them to remain committed to cleanliness, environmental protection and a drug-free lifestyle.
The Governor also interacted with the participants and motivated them to contribute towards preserving Himachal Pradesh's green cover and to stay away from substance abuse. He visited an exhibition organised by the Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change and appreciated the efforts being undertaken to promote environmental awareness. He also signed the "Harit Himachal and Chitta-Mukt Himachal" campaign wall, reaffirming his commitment to both causes.
Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari, Secretary, Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change, Sushil Kumar Singla, Director of Census Operations, Himachal Pradesh, Deep Shikha Sharma, along with senior officers and other dignitaries, were also present on the occasion.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartwarming to see the Governor himself take the pledge and sign the campaign wall! I'm from Shimla and I remember when this Ridge used to host all sorts of social events. Now it's mostly tourists. This kind of event brings back the community spirit. Also, combining environment with anti-drug theme is very clever—clean mind, clean environment! 👏💚
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. We see these flag-offs every year but ground reality remains same. Drug abuse in Himachal is still rampant, especially in villages. The police need to focus on supply side too, not just awareness. But yes, any step is better than no step. Let's hope this marathon actually leads to some real action on the ground. 🤔
Finally, a government event that addresses two most pressing issues for our state! The environment is our biggest asset and drugs are destroying our youth. I appreciate that they included specially-abled participants too—that's inclusive! But I wish they would also focus on plastic waste in these marathons. Still, a well-organized event. 🙏💪
"Development cannot be accepted at the cost of the environment." I wish our leaders in Delhi would take this seriously too! Himachal is lucky to have such a beautiful landscape. As for the drug issue, it's good to see the police taking initiative. But parents and teachers need to be more vigilant. Home is where the real education begins.
Great to see people from all walks of life participating—CAPF, students, senior citizens. That
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