Alcohol and Drug Addiction Pose a Serious Threat to the Nation’s Future, Says Sharanuppa Saladapur

Sharanuppa Saladapur, Chairman of the Karnataka State Prohibition and De-Addiction Board, said that alcohol and drug addiction are not only affecting individual health but are also disrupting families, society, and the country’s future. He urged collective efforts to build an addiction-free society through awareness and value-based education.

Key Details:

• The remarks were made during the World Anti-Drug Day programme held at Vishwa Okkaligara Mahasamsthana Math near Kengeri, Bengaluru.

• The event was jointly organized by the Karnataka State Prohibition and De-Addiction Board, Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi, and Vishwa Okkaligara Mahasamsthana Math.

• Sharanuppa Saladapur said substance abuse leads to physical, mental, and social problems, contributing to poverty, domestic conflicts, violence, and stress within families.

• He emphasized that creating an addiction-free society is a shared responsibility of citizens, parents, teachers, religious leaders, and the government.

• Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi President Dr. Woode P. Krishna expressed concern over the increasing misuse of narcotic substances among students and youth, urging them to become ambassadors against addiction.

• Karnataka State Decentralisation Planning and Development Committee Vice Chairman D.R. Patil called for greater emphasis on teachers’ personality, ethics, communication skills, and commitment during recruitment to help guide students effectively.

• Aland MLA B.R. Patil urged the Central Government to formulate a comprehensive policy for nationwide prohibition to address the social, economic, and health impacts of alcohol consumption.

• Religious leaders, including Chittaragi Sri Vijayamahanteshwara Swamiji, Gurubasava Pattadevaru Swamiji, and Dr. Nishchalanandanatha Swamiji, appealed to students to stay away from alcohol and drugs and adopt healthy lifestyles.

• Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi Treasurer H.B. Dinesh administered a pledge encouraging students to remain free from alcohol and drug addiction.

• Several former government officials, public representatives, and dignitaries attended the programme