Himachal Pradesh Governor Acharya Devvrat on Sunday said the State is called as Dev Bhoomi and increase of drugs in Dev Bhoomi is a matter of great concern.

“It is necessary for all of us to work together to make Himachal a drug-free State,” the Governor said while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the four-days Lavi Mela in Rampur. Acharya Devvrat said drug addiction is spreading in the Dev Bhoomi and the younger generation is coming in its grip, which is a matter of great concern for all of us.

Effective steps have been taken in this direction with the help of the Government and police administration, but we all need to work together in this direction. Drug addiction is not a problem confined to a family, but it is a social evil which is ruining the future generation of the country, he said.

He said illegal activities such as drug abuse and gambling takes place under the guise of festivals and fairs which should be stopped so that the significance and relevance of these festivals can be maintained.

The Governor said an International Lavi Mela is important from historical point of view, which is not only known for business activities but also mythological traditions. This festival plays an important role in preserving its rich cultural heritage of State as well as country, he added.

On this occasion, the Governor called upon the people to move forward in the direction of natural farming.

He said the State Government has made a provision of Rs 25 crore for promoting natural farming, which is a positive initiative towards poison-free farming.

He also apprised the people of the consequences of chemical farming and said by using excessive chemicals, we have made our land barren and the foodgrains and fruits which are being produced by using these chemicals are adversely affecting our health.

This is the reason that many incurable diseases have arisen today, he said.

The Governor added natural farming is based on Indian breed cows and by adopting this farming, we can also protect the cows of local breed.

He urged the people to understand the usefulness of local breed cows and therefore not to leave them on roads but instead work for the improvement of their breed.

The Governor congratulated the people for the International Lavi Fair and appreciated the comprehensive arrangements of the district administration.

Earlier, the Governor inaugurated exhibitions of various departments at Lavi Fair.