The greatest strength of any state is its youth. If youth are equipped with education, employment, values, and opportunities, they can elevate the state and nation to new heights. However, if these same youth are exposed to drug addiction, crime, and distraction, this very strength becomes a significant challenge for society. Today, the growing trend of drug abuse in many parts of the country, including Haryana, the influence of gangster culture, the glorification of crime on social media, and the increasing obscenity in stage programs are issues that require serious consideration. These problems cannot be resolved solely by relying on the law; instead, society, families, artists, educational institutions, and the administration must all shoulder their responsibilities together.
The first and foremost fight should be against drug addiction. If addiction is eradicated, a major cause of crime will automatically disappear. Addiction ruins not only the individual but the entire family. When a youth falls prey to addiction, they drop out of school, their health deteriorates, their family faces financial crisis, and they gradually begin to drift towards the world of crime. Drug addiction often becomes the primary cause of crimes like theft, robbery, violence, and murder. Therefore, a drug-free society is not only a matter of health, but also of law and order and social development.
Every parent dreams of their son or daughter leading a respectable life through education. No mother wants her son to be ruined before her eyes by drug addiction. Therefore, the primary goal of the government, administration, and society should be to protect the young generation from drug addiction. If youth are safe, families will be safe, and if families are safe, society and the nation will also become stronger. A system should be developed that ensures no mother cries upon seeing her son’s dead body, and no father has to despair for his son’s future.
Police action alone is not enough against drug abuse. Regular awareness campaigns must be conducted in schools, colleges, and universities. Students must be involved in sports, libraries, cultural activities, and skill development. Young people must be convinced that true success in life lies not in addiction, but in hard work, education, and discipline. De-addiction centers in villages and cities must be made more effective so that those who have fallen into the grip of addiction can be respectfully brought back into the mainstream.
Additionally, gangster culture has become a serious social challenge. Some criminal organizations lure innocent and underage children into crime. Young children are lured into crime by the allure of easy money, expensive cars, weapons, and social media fame. Often, these children are unaware of the quagmire they are entering. By the time they realize the reality, their future, their families, and their lives are already in jeopardy.
The most worrying thing is that the adults who commit crimes remain silent while inciting innocent children. Ultimately, these children and their families bear the brunt of the crime. A minor’s involvement in crime exposes his or her entire family to social humiliation, financial hardship, and mental anguish. Therefore, strict action against such criminal gangs is the need of the hour.
The police administration constantly strives to control crime, but the cooperation of society is equally essential. If suspicious activities are observed in any area, if someone is luring children into crime or dealing in illegal weapons and drugs, it is the duty of every responsible citizen to inform the relevant authorities. Only collective awareness of society can be the most effective weapon against criminals.
Social media has also exacerbated this problem. Today, some people portray gangsters as heroes. Their songs, videos, and posts portray crime as a symbol of power and honor. This trend negatively affects the minds of young people. Society needs to break these myths and introduce young people to real heroes—those who have brought glory to the nation through education, science, sports, the military, agriculture, industry, and social service.
Similarly, serious consideration is needed regarding the direction of cultural programs and stage events. Haryana has a rich cultural heritage. Its raginis, folk songs, folk dances, and traditional arts are hallmarks of Indian culture. These folk traditions, along with entertainment, also imparted moral education, social messages, and cultural dignity. However, over time, complaints have emerged about increasing vulgarity, obscenity, and unnecessary displays in some stage programs.
It is inappropriate for family viewing programs to feature scenes that adversely affect children and adolescents. Artists are a source of inspiration for society. Their words, their clothing, their performances, and their behavior reach millions. Therefore, artists’ social responsibility is as great as their popularity.
Haryana’s artists should be expected to maintain decorum on stage. Entertainment does not necessarily mean obscenity. Art becomes great when it unites, inspires, and positively guides society. The soul of folk culture lies in its simplicity, sensitivity, and social consciousness. If the stage becomes merely a medium for provocation, it loses its original identity.
Wherever public events are held, the organizers should be held accountable. They should adhere to the rules set by the administration, avoid obscene performances, control noise pollution, and conduct events within social norms. This will preserve culture and foster a positive environment in society.
However, it’s important to remember that any art or cultural activity should be evaluated with a balanced perspective. Not all artists or stage programs are the same. Many artists continue to promote excellent folk culture, social messages, and family entertainment. Therefore, the need is not to blame an entire community, but to discourage trends that violate social norms.
If drug addiction decreases in society, crime is effectively controlled, and cultural programs are given a positive direction, the younger generation will have a better environment. To achieve this, the government must increase employment opportunities, expand sports facilities, develop libraries and playgrounds in rural areas, and connect youth with skills training. Idle time and frustration often lead young people down the wrong path. Providing positive alternatives is as important as enforcing the law.
The role of families is paramount. Parents must become friends with their children. Sensitively monitor their behavior, peer groups, and digital activities. Maintaining communication with children, teaching them moral values, and addressing their problems in a timely manner are the most effective measures to prevent crime and drug abuse.
The role of teachers is also crucial. Schools aren’t just a place to pass exams. They are centers of character development. If teachers instill discipline, sensitivity, patriotism, and a sense of social responsibility in students, future generations can become more aware and responsible.
The media and entertainment industry also need to introspect. Society tends to see and embrace what is presented repeatedly. If positive examples are given more prominence, young people will be inspired in that direction. If the glorification of criminals is reduced and the stories of hardworking, honest, and successful individuals are more prominent, the social environment will also change.
Haryana has given the country soldiers, athletes, scientists, farmers, sportsmen, administrative officers, and many talented citizens. This state is known for its hard work, courage, and cultural identity. Therefore, it is essential that its new generation also carries forward this glorious tradition. To achieve this, a comprehensive public awareness campaign against drug addiction, crime, and social evils is the need of the hour.
Society progresses only when it recognizes its problems and makes collective efforts to address them. If we truly want every home to be prosperous, no mother to cry for her son, no innocent to be pushed into the world of crime, and our culture to progress with its dignity intact, we must take a pledge today. A decisive fight against drugs, strict action against gangster networks, the protection of children, respect for cultural dignity, and a positive social environment—this is the path that can become the foundation for a bright future not only for Haryana but for the entire country.
