Governor Highlights Concerns Over Substance Abuse Among Youth in Uttar Pradesh

In a recent address at Gorakhpur University, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel highlighted the urgent need to combat substance abuse among youth. She raised concerns about the risks associated with food from outside, particularly through tiffin services, which could introduce narcotics. Patel urged students to commit to a drug-free lifestyle and suggested that the university should manage its own dining services to ensure safety. Her remarks come amid a broader campaign aimed at addressing social evils affecting the younger generation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 17:28 IST

Addressing Substance Abuse at Graduation Ceremony

Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) - On August 7, the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, emphasized the importance of keeping the youth away from social evils like substance abuse during an ongoing campaign. She expressed deep concern over the necessity of such initiatives, highlighting the alarming situation that has led to their implementation.

During the 45th convocation ceremony at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, the Governor raised issues regarding food safety and the potential for drug use among students. She warned that food brought from outside, particularly through tiffin services, could pose a risk of introducing narcotics and other harmful substances.

Patel urged students to commit to becoming substance-free within the next year and to encourage others to do the same. She pointed out that while everyone is aware of the negative consequences of drug use, many still struggle to break free from it, stressing the need for youth to change this narrative.

Expressing her dissatisfaction with the lack of dining facilities in the boys' hostel, she noted that students are reliant on external tiffin services. She cautioned that these services could present serious security risks, stating, 'Drugs can easily be smuggled in with the food.'

Patel suggested that the university should either manage its own dining services or appoint authorized agencies to provide meals for students to mitigate these risks.