Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday called upon newly elected panchayat representatives to play an active role in the fight against drug abuse and work towards creating chitta-free panchayats and a drug-free society.
The CM administered an anti-chitta pledge during the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected panchayat pradhans and up-pradhans held here on Monday. Congratulating the elected representatives, he said panchayats serve as a crucial link between the government and the people and play an important role in implementing development initiatives at the grassroots level.
Education Minister Rohit Thakur administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly elected panchayat pradhans and up-pradhans of the district.
Addressing the gathering, Sukhu expressed confidence that the representatives would work with commitment and dedication to promote development, public welfare and the effective implementation of government schemes and services in rural areas.
He urged panchayat leaders to encourage sports, education, cultural activities and other constructive programmes in their villages to help steer youth away from drug abuse and channel their energy towards positive pursuits.
“The fight against chitta and other narcotic substances requires active public participation. Panchayat representatives can play a decisive role in creating awareness and building a social movement against drugs,” he said.
The CM said the state government had launched several welfare and development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of people across all sections of society and that these programmes were already producing encouraging results.
“The government has adopted a visionary approach to strengthening the rural economy and promoting key sectors such as green Himachal, quality education, healthcare, employment generation, sound financial management, drug de-addiction and employee welfare,” he said.
He added that the state government remained committed to ensuring inclusive development and improving public service delivery through stronger grassroots institutions.
Chairman of the Seventh State Finance Commission Nand Lal, MLAs Kuldeep Singh Rathore, Mohan Lal Brakta and Harish Janartha, State Women Commission Chairperson Vidya Negi and senior government officers were present on the occasion.
