Gorakhpur: Students at Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharthnagar, pledged to lead a drug-free life during an awareness programme organised by the National Service Scheme (NSS) on Wednesday.The event, held on Oct 28, aimed to sensitise young people to the harmful effects of substance abuse and encourage them to adopt a healthy lifestyle.The programme was presided over by Prof Neeta Yadav, dean of the faculty of arts, while Dinesh Prasad, NSS coordinator, attended as the guest. Sarita Singh, programme officer of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose NSS unit, coordinated the event. It began with the garlanding of a portrait of Goddess Saraswati and the lighting of a ceremonial lamp.Addressing the students, Prof Yadav said, “Remember, addiction gives you five minutes of intoxication but takes away your awareness for a lifetime.”Referring to the historical and spiritual significance of the land of Siddharth, she urged students to draw inspiration from Prince Siddhartha, who renounced his royal life in pursuit of truth.A poster-making competition was also organised, in which NSS volunteers participated enthusiastically. Posters carrying slogans such as “Quit addiction, save lives” and “Addiction destroys life” drew attention.
