Vallabh Government College, Mandi Launches Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan with Awareness Rally and Environmental Initiatives.
Shimla:
The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign) was formally inaugurated at Vallabh Government College, Mandi, by the Principal, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar. On this occasion, he flagged off the Drug-Free Awareness Rally. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from the National Cadet Corps (Air Wing and Army Wing) and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, who spread the message of a drug-free society across Mandi town.
To curb the growing menace of substance abuse, the college organized a series of activities including the awareness rally, orientation programs, street plays, and counseling sessions. Marking the occasion, Principal Dr. Sanjeev Kumar planted a sapling of the Himalayan Rakhal (Taxus contorta Griff.) in the college premises.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar emphasized the importance of channelizing the energy of youth in a positive direction. He stated that through sports, NCC, libraries, environment, and science clubs, young energy can be redirected creatively to control substance abuse effectively. He further highlighted that Vallabh Government College is playing a pivotal role in the holistic development of students. Speaking about the significance of Rakhal, he noted that it is one of the most important evergreen trees of the Himalayas, valued not only for environmental enrichment but also for its medicinal and religious significance.
Prof. Anju Sharma, Coordinator of the Drug-Free India Campaign at the college, informed that the students and NCC cadets sensitized young people about the harmful effects of drugs through awareness rallies and street plays.
Flying Officer Dr. Chaman remarked that the National Cadet Corps is the largest uniformed youth organization in the country and is making remarkable contributions to community development programs. NCC cadets are actively participating not only in the Drug-Free India Campaign but also in cleanliness drives and environmental protection initiatives.
The Department of Botany faculty members, Dr. Deepali Ashok, Dr. Tara Sen, and Dr. Banita Saklani, shared insights about the Rakhal tree. They explained that the seed of Rakhal is covered with a red, sweet, jelly-like aril which can be used to make jams, jellies, or sweets. However, the seed itself is poisonous and not edible. Tea made from its bark and leaves is beneficial in ailments such as cough, asthma, and bronchitis. In modern medicine, Rakhal is the source of Paclitaxel (Taxol), a vital drug used in cancer treatment.
They cautioned that due to its toxic properties, Rakhal must be kept away from children and domestic animals. Owing to overexploitation and illegal felling, this species has become endangered. Hence, cultivation and conservation programs are urgently needed to ensure its sustainable use. This tree can live for centuries and plays an essential role in the Himalayan ecosystem by providing food and shelter to wildlife. Because of its medicinal and biological value, it is also referred to as the “Wild Pharmacist.”
The event was graced by the presence of the Anti-Drug Awareness Committee members: Prof. Anju Sharma, Dr. Radhika Jamwal, Dr. Harish Chauhan, Dr. Ratan Lal Verma, Flying Officer Dr. Chaman, Dr. Banita Saklani, Dr. Deepali Ashok, Assistant Professor Priyanka Randhawa, Dr. Balbir, Dr. Praveen Saunkhla, Dr. Sushila Sipahia, Dr. Manoj Thakur, Assistant Professor Shivendra, along with a large number of NCC cadets.
