Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday warned that drug abuse and smartphone addiction are the two most serious threats confronting today’s youth. He urged students to stay away from both in order to safeguard their personal future as well as the nation’s.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 93rd Founder’s Week of Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad held at Mahayogi Gorakhnath University, Adityanath emphasized that a young person ensnared in addiction is unable to fulfill responsibilities toward family, society, or the country.
“The two biggest threats facing today’s youth are drug abuse and smartphone addiction. They should stay away from both to safeguard their own future and that of the nation,” the chief minister said.
Warning Against Drug Mafias
Adityanath cautioned that drug mafias are aggressively targeting young people, urging students and educational institutions to remain vigilant. He stressed that youth must be prepared for a new battle against addiction, warning that the “enemy wants to infiltrate in one form or another” and that students should not give them the opportunity.
Smartphone Use and Its Dangers
The chief minister also highlighted the dangers of excessive smartphone use:
- Damages eyesight
- Dulls cognitive abilities
- Weakens intellect and physical capabilities
He advised students to gradually reduce screen time, using phones only when necessary, and limiting usage to half an hour or an hour at a time, rather than attempting sudden, drastic changes.
Preparing for a Technological Future
CM Adityanath reminded students that the world is stepping into a new era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), drones, and robotics. He stressed that while technology will simplify life, it also brings challenges and opportunities. Youth should be mentally and physically prepared for these shifts, and academic institutions must train students accordingly.
“Technology will not reduce jobs but create new opportunities. Success comes to those who remain patient and persistent. Defeat happens only when our outlook turns negative,” he said.
He also underlined the importance of healthy competition and teamwork, noting that shortcuts never lead to lasting success.
Felicitation of Students and Institutions
During the ceremony, Adityanath, along with Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh, felicitated outstanding institutions, teachers, employees, attendants, and meritorious students across PG, UG, high school, and intermediate levels. About 150 awards were presented on stage, with another 700 awards distributed through institutions.
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