Guwahati, Oct 20: Youth empowerment, substance abuse awareness, self-reliance and national security were among the issues highlighted by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya during his interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
According to a statement issued on Monday, Acharya highlighted two initiatives undertaken by Assam Lok Bhavan, ‘Nashamukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Namo Matribhoomi Suraksha avam Swavalamban Sankalp Saptah’ aimed at empowering youths and encouraging self-reliance, patriotism and awareness about national security.
“These initiatives reflect a commitment to empowering youth, raising awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse, and instilling a deeper sense of responsibility towards national security, self-reliance, and nation-building,” the release stated.
The Governor also apprised Modi of efforts by Lok Bhavan to strengthen national consciousness and foster patriotism among the younger generation.
During the interaction, Acharya shared his experiences from a recent visit to Mongolia and extended greetings to the Prime Minister on the occasions of Durga Puja and Dussehra. He also expressed gratitude to Modi for his guidance and interaction, the release added.
The interaction comes amid intensified efforts by the Assam government and the Centre to curb drug abuse, with police stepping up enforcement and authorities emphasising awareness among young people.
On Sunday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated the state government's tough stance against drug trafficking, saying, “Nearly Rs 80 crore worth of drugs seized in Assam last month. Objection overruled. My message is clear: no one gets a free pass.”
Assam Police, particularly its Special Task Force (STF), has intensified anti-drug operations.
More than 32,000 people were arrested in connection with drug trafficking in Assam between 2011 and July 2026, while drugs worth Rs 3,054 crore were seized during the period.
Annual seizures amounted to Rs 668 crore in 2024 and Rs 476 crore in 2025, while drugs worth Rs 322.7 crore were seized up to July 2026.