HH Dalai Lama urges Ladakh youth to reject drugs, embrace compassion

LEH: Delivering a message that blends spiritual guidance with a social appeal, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has urged the youth of Ladakh to stay away from drug and substance abuse, calling upon them to cultivate compassion, integrity and mental resilience as the foundation of a meaningful life.

In a message released on July 20 following his recent interactions with young people in Ladakh, the Dalai Lama said many students had spoken to him about finding happiness and coping with emotions such as stress, anger and fear. He observed that lasting happiness does not arise from wealth or power, but from peace of mind achieved through compassion, self-discipline and service to others.

He encouraged young people to replace selfishness with altruism, describing concern for the well-being of others as the surest path to inner peace. According to the Dalai Lama, practising honesty, integrity, patience and loving kindness helps reduce anxiety and negative emotions while strengthening human relationships.

Addressing the issue of narcotics, the Tibetan spiritual leader said some young Ladakhis had expressed concern over friends struggling with drug addiction. He described substance abuse as a destructive habit that ultimately leads to suffering and urged the youth to recognise its harmful consequences before it takes hold. He also acknowledged the courage of those seeking treatment and pursuing recovery, expressing hope that they would rebuild healthy, purposeful and fulfilling lives.

Calling the younger generation his “spiritual brothers and sisters”, the Dalai Lama appealed to the youth of Ladakh to refrain from substance abuse and instead nurture values that contribute to personal well-being and social harmony. He stressed that education, reflection and disciplined mental training remain the most effective means of overcoming destructive emotions and making responsible life choices.

Echoing the appeal, Ladakh Police reaffirmed its commitment to protecting young people from the menace of narcotics and urged the public to support efforts aimed at preventing substance abuse. The police called upon families, educational institutions and local communities to work collectively in creating greater awareness and safeguarding the younger generation from addiction.

The message comes amid sustained efforts in Ladakh to strengthen public awareness on drug abuse and reinforce community participation in preventive initiatives across the Union Territory.