ITANAGAR, 15 Sep: The Lok Bhavan here on Tuesday organised declamation and painting competitions under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, as part of the governor's sustained campaign against the growing menace of substance abuse in the state.

The initiative sought to engage young minds in raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse, and to inspire them to become active partners in building a drug-free society.

Through creative expression and informed dialogue, the programme reinforced the message that the fight against drugs requires collective commitment and youth-led action.

The governor interacted with the participants and commended them for their confidence, clarity of thought and commitment to a cause that is of critical importance to society. He expressed his appreciation for the high standard of the declamation, noting that the participants articulated their views with conviction, maturity and a deep sense of social responsibility.

"Such platforms nurture public speaking skills and also encourage young minds to think critically about issues affecting their communities," he said.

Thirty-one students from institutes of higher education from across the state, including Arunachal Pradesh University, Pasighat, Dera Natung Government College, Itanagar, Binni Yanga Government Women's College, Jote, Jarbom Gamlin Law College, Jote, Dorjee Khandu Government College, Tawang, NERIST, Nirjuli, Arunadaya University, Itanagar, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Apex Professional University, Pasighat, IGTAMSU, Ziro, and Don Bosco College, Itanagar participated in the declamation competition.

In the painting competition, 35 students from various schools in the ICR, including Government Higher Secondary School, Polo Colony, Naharlagun, Mallo Tarin Govt Higher Secondary School, Itanagar, KV No 2, Itanagar, KV No 1, Naharlagun, VKV, Chimpu, VKV, Nirjuli, and Don Bosco School, Jollang, participated. (Lok Bhavan)