PM Modi cautions youths against drug use

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday cautioned the youth against drug use, saying it not only adversely affects the body and mind of the user but it also funds anti-national forces.

Speaking via teleconferencing at the launch of 'Drug Free India' campaign at Guru Jambheshwar University in Hisar, Haryana, Modi said drug money is used by anti-social elements for various illegal activities including funding of terror operations. The drug traders harm the youth's potential and weaken the economy, he said.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was the chief guest at the launch event of the campaign which is being organised by the Art of Living foundation. Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar presided over the programme, a Haryana government release said.

More than 20,000 youths participated in it.

The prime minister appealed to the people to adopt a sensitive approach when dealing with victims of drugs by not looking at them as criminals and "showing these misguided youths the right path .