Patna, October 27: (ABN) The prohibition law in Bihar was implemented by the then Chief Minister, Mr. Nitish Kumar, at the demand of half the population, namely women, and it had the full support of Jeevika Didi. Today, this campaign has emerged as a major example of social change. These views were expressed by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Bijendra Prasad Yadav on Tuesday during the launch of the 'Drug-Free Bihar Campaign'. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary inaugurated this state-level program organized by the Prohibition, Excise, and Registration Department at the Convention Hall of the Old Secretariat by flagging off the anti-drug awareness campaign. On this occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that this special campaign running from October 27 to November 26 is a pledge for a healthy, empowered, and conscious young generation and a developed Bihar. He urged the youth to choose their dreams instead of addiction and play their role in making Bihar a developed state. Minister of the Excise Department, Mr. Madan Sahni, said that the prohibition law has completed 10 years of implementation and today it enjoys the support of every section of society. He provided detailed information about the joint action of the Excise Department and the police. The minister further added that the department is conducting a comprehensive campaign not only against alcohol but also against dry drugs. He clarified that over the past 10 years, a strict crackdown has been carried out against the liquor mafia, and this action will continue. He concluded by saying that public awareness alongside enforcement is essential, only then will this campaign be successful.
Minister of Higher Education Sanjay Singh Tiger said that the drug prevention campaign is a clear example for the bright future of Bihar. Through this, we must create awareness, especially among the youth. He said that if someone is suffering from drug addiction, help them and provide them with proper counseling and medical assistance. Only by saying no to drugs will we be able to say yes to life.
Secretary of the Prohibition Department, Sanjay Kumar Singh, said that about 58 percent of the state's total population consists of youth, hence making Bihar's society drug-free is necessary for a bright future. He further added that after the implementation of prohibition, there has been a significant decline in domestic violence, road accidents, and other criminal incidents in the state. The Secretary explained that this month-long awareness campaign has been divided into four phases. In the first week, awareness programs will be run in urban areas, while the second week will focus on villages. In the third week, publicity will be carried out through street plays, posters, and banners at Chhath Ghats, public places, and markets. The fourth and final week will conclude with essay writing, poetry, and debate competitions in schools, colleges, and universities.