Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde on Friday, 7 August attended a national seminar themed 'Drug-free Vagad, Healthy Youth, Empowered Tribal Community and Developed India' at Govind Guru Tribal University (GGTU) in Banswara, calling on citizens to collectively work toward a drug-free nation. The seminar brought together educators, tribal community leaders, and students at one of Rajasthan's key institutions for tribal welfare.

Governor's Appeal on Drug Menace

Addressing the gathering, Bagde warned that narcotic substances are being deliberately used to weaken the country's youth. He urged those present to counsel individuals struggling with addiction and to report drug traffickers to the police without hesitation.

The Governor also flagged the danger of driving under the influence of intoxicants, noting that such incidents claim the lives of many young people and leave their families in severe hardship. His remarks underscored the dual threat posed by substance abuse — to individual health and to road safety.

TB-Free India and Community Health

Bagde drew attention to the government's TB-Free India campaign, appealing to citizens to assist tuberculosis patients in their neighbourhoods who are unable to access treatment on their own. He stressed that timely community support could be decisive in ensuring such patients receive the medical care they need.

Education, Tribal Welfare and Governance

Describing universities as 'temples of learning,' the Governor said students are akin to deities and teachers to priests. He expressed hope that an increasing number of tribal students would pursue higher education at GGTU, which was established specifically for the welfare of the tribal community.

Bagde emphasised that quality education is the most effective tool for eliminating poverty, and that transforming one generation through learning secures the future of those that follow. He called on educationists to prioritise foundational, primary-level learning as the bedrock of a strong education system.

'Education without values serves little purpose,' he remarked, stressing that the true aim of education is to foster intellectual growth, self-discipline, tolerance, morality, and civility.

On governance in higher education, Bagde noted that Vice-Chancellors found involved in financial irregularities at universities had been suspended — describing it as an unprecedented step in Rajasthan's history.

Tribute to Govind Guru and Conservation Drive

The Governor recalled the contribution of Govind Guru to India's freedom struggle, noting that the revered tribal leader united the Bhil and Banjara communities to build a powerful movement against British rule. He said Govind Guru's contribution to the independence movement remains a source of inspiration for tribal communities across the country.

Earlier in the programme, Bagde planted a Khejri sapling on the university campus. He noted that the Khejri is Rajasthan's State Tree and said directions have been issued from Raj Bhavan to promote its plantation and conservation statewide.

The seminar signals continued focus on tribal education and social health in the Vagad region, with GGTU expected to expand outreach programmes in the coming academic year.