Drug-free society essential for a developed and strong nation, says Chief Minister
Jaipur, October 2026: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Tuesday said Vijayadashami was not merely an occasion to commemorate the slaying of Ravana but also an opportunity to pledge to eliminate social evils and harmful practices.
Addressing the Ravana Dahan festival organised in Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur, on the occasion of Vijayadashami, Sharma said Lord Shri Ram’s life exemplified public welfare, adherence to moral values, ideal conduct and the protection of Sanatan culture. He said working for the welfare of every section of society by following Lord Ram’s ideals was the true path towards establishing Ram Rajya.
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, historic efforts were being made to promote development while preserving and strengthening India’s cultural heritage.
He cited the consecration of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya, the redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the construction of Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and efforts to commemorate Somnath’s glorious heritage as initiatives that had infused new energy into the country’s cultural consciousness.
Sharma also highlighted India’s commitment to combating terrorism, citing the surgical strikes, the Balakot airstrike and Operation Sindoor. He said decisive action against Naxalism had further strengthened the environment of peace and security in the country.
Rajasthan government working to preserve cultural heritage
The Chief Minister said the state government was also making continuous efforts to preserve Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage and develop religious sites.
Initiatives such as the development and reconstruction of temples, the creation of panoramas dedicated to saints and folk traditions, and the organisation of festivals and celebrations throughout the year at government-managed temples had helped reinforce the state’s cultural identity, he added.
Call for a united fight against drug abuse
Expressing concern over the growing tendency towards substance abuse among young people, Sharma described addiction as a serious challenge to the future of individuals, families and society.
He said a 100-week campaign was being conducted under the guidance of the Prime Minister to eliminate the social evil of drug abuse, which he symbolically described as “Ravana”.
The Chief Minister stressed that a developed and strong nation could be built only through a drug-free society. He called upon citizens and social organisations to play an active role in the campaign against substance abuse.
Earlier, Sharma visited the Shri Ram Temple, where he offered prayers and sought blessings for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of Rajasthan.
Member of Parliament Manju Sharma, MLA Kalicharan Saraf, Mayor Sunil Kothari, former MLA Ashok Parnami, office-bearers of the organising committee and a large number of citizens attended the event.
