By Mp Manoj Tiwari

Copyright thehindu

Nearly 5,000 students participated in the ‘Namo Yuva Run’ at the Delhi University Sports Complex on Sunday, aiming to promote a drug-free society.

The 5-kilometre run, organised by the Delhi BJP Yuva Morcha, was flagged off by MP Manoj Tiwari, BJP co-incharge Alka Gurjar and Padma Shri awardee athlete Sudha Singh.

Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Rajbhushan Chaudhary said, “The idea is to send a strong message of drug-free living to the youth, so they can meaningfully contribute to building a developed India. A healthy and drug-free India is our goal.” The marathon was held as part of the Drug-Free India Campaign, marking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday with a fortnight of service and outreach programmes.

Mr. Tiwari said that an oath was administered to participants to stay away from drugs and safeguard their health and future. “It’s a matter of pride to celebrate Modiji’s birthday this way, because he wants it marked by service and innovation,” he added. Tiwari, BJP co-incharge Alka Gurjar and Padma Shri awardee athlete Sudha Singh drew students and youth in large numbers. The marathon was held under the Drug-Free India Campaign as part of ‘Seva Pakhwada,’ marking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday with a fortnight of service and outreach programmes.