A AKHTER /
President Pranab Mukherjee today said alcoholism and substance abuse have caused havoc in the social life of country as well as across the world.
Mr Mukherjee was addressing a function in New Delhi after presenting National awards for outstanding services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) abuse. President said many studies have established that terrorism, smuggling and drug activities are co-related. Unless these linkages are broken, it will be very difficult to fight all three.
He asked the award winners not to remain complacent and to continue with efforts for eradicating the twin menace. Mr Mukherjee complimented the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for its initiatives and stressed the need for civil society and NGOs to work closely with the Government in eradicating the menace.
Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot said addicition to drugs and alcohol not only affects the individuals involved but also disrupts the family and society at large. On the occasion the Minister of States for Social Justice and Empowerment Krishan Pal Gurjar and Vijay Sampla were also present.