Inaugurating the campaign against drug addiction organised by Shimla Press Club here, he said the state should be made "drug free" as it was ruinous for people, especially for youth and society at large.
The Governor said drug trade had increased fivefold in states like Manipur, Mizoram and Punjab during past one year as assessed from the seizures made by the investigation agencies and the quantity of drugs which escaped the lenses of investigating agencies was much more.
He said the use of intoxicants not only negatively impacted the wellbeing of the individuals, but also distorted society and led to heinous crime, poor health, poor performance in education.
Devvrat said a mass campaign against drug abuse was the need of the hour.
The Governor announced rupees grant of Rs one lakh to the Press Club Shimla for organising the campaign against drugs.