Students of PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Mukhla, West Jaintia Hills, were sensitised on the importance of leading a drug-free life and maintaining a clean environment during an awareness programme organised under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) and Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) by the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong. The programme encouraged students to make informed choices, reject substance abuse and become active participants in promoting cleanliness, responsible waste management and environmental conservation.
The programme witnessed the participation of Shri Neeraj Kumar, Principal, PM SHRI JNV Mukhla, Smt. Hun-i-ka Tang, Block Programme Assistant (SBM-G), Thadlaskein Block, faculty members, students and officials of CBC Shillong.
Addressing the gathering, speakers highlighted the significance of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment aimed at creating awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and mobilising community participation for a drug-free India. Students were sensitised about the adverse impact of drug addiction on physical health, mental well-being, education, family life and society. Students also took an active part in the interactive session, engaging with the speakers through questions and discussions on substance abuse prevention and healthy lifestyle choices.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Hun-i-ka Tang elaborated on the objectives and key components of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen). She explained the Mission’s efforts towards sustaining an Open Defecation Free (ODF) India through improved sanitation infrastructure and effective Solid and Liquid Waste Management systems. Emphasising the importance of environmental responsibility, she educated students on waste segregation, plastic waste management, safe disposal of waste and the need to adopt sustainable practices in everyday life.
The students were also introduced to the concept of the Four Rs – Reduce, Refuse, Reuse and Recycle, as practical measures to minimise waste generation and conserve natural resources. The session further highlighted simple practices such as composting, kitchen gardening and the productive utilisation of biodegradable waste, demonstrating how responsible waste management can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
To reinforce the key messages of the programme, a drawing competition on the themes of a drug-free society and cleanliness was organised, providing students with an opportunity to creatively express their ideas and understanding of the issues discussed.
A cleanliness drive was also conducted within the school campus, with students enthusiastically participating in cleaning activities and demonstrating their commitment towards a clean and healthy environment. The activity translated the message of Swachh Bharat Mission into action and encouraged students to adopt cleanliness as a daily habit.
An interactive quiz on the themes of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and Swachh Bharat Mission generated enthusiastic participation from the students and helped reinforce the knowledge shared during the sessions. Winners of the drawing competition and quiz contest were awarded prizes and certificates in recognition of their performance and active involvement.