Sporting Legends Unite for Drug-Free India: Launch of 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' Movement

Mumbai. In a powerful demonstration of unity and purpose, some of India's most celebrated sports personalities have come together to champion the 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' movement. The initiative, spearheaded by newly appointed Head Coach of the Indian Men’s Cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, alongside football legends Sunil Chhetri and Bhaichung Bhutia, and multiple Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza, aims to combat drug abuse among Indian youth. This significant campaign is in collaboration with Sony Sports Network, which is committed to motivating the young population of India towards a drug-free life.

A United Front Against Drug Abuse

The 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' movement features an impressive lineup of Indian athletes from various disciplines, all united in their message against drug abuse. These sports icons, through a series of films, are spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and encouraging the youth to choose a healthy, champion-like lifestyle.

Prominent Figures Involved:

• Gautam Gambhir: Newly appointed Head Coach of the Indian Men’s Cricket team.
• Sunil Chhetri & Bhaichung Bhutia: Football stalwarts.
• Sania Mirza: Multiple Grand Slam winner.
• Saina Nehwal: Olympic medallist in badminton.
• Smriti Mandhana: Vice-captain of the Indian women’s cricket team.
• PR Sreejesh: Veteran goalkeeper of the Indian Hockey team.
• Manpreet Singh: Former captain of the Indian men’s Hockey team.
• Nikhat Zareen: Two-time world champion boxer.

Expanding the Reach

In addition to the aforementioned stars, the movement also includes:

• Gurpreet Singh Sandhu: Captain and goalkeeper of the Indian Football team.
• Ashish Nehra: Former Team India cricketer.
• Deepak Chahar: Current Team India cricketer.
• Sumit Nagal: Indian tennis player.
• Anjum Moudgil: Ace Indian shooter.
• Savita Punia: Goalkeeper of the Indian Women’s Hockey team.
• Chirag Shetty & Satwik Rankireddy: Asian Games gold medallists in badminton.
• Puja Tomar: The first Indian to win a fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
• Sneh Rana: Bowler for the Indian women’s cricket team.

The Sobering Statistics

A United Nations study highlights the urgency of this campaign, revealing that approximately 13 percent of drug abuse victims in India are below the age of 20. The nation has seen a staggering 70 percent increase in narcotic consumption over the past eight years. Alarmingly, drugs are often introduced to the youth by someone they know, frequently a friend.

Aiming for a Drug-Free Future

The 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' movement targets potential first-time drug users, encouraging them to make the right choice by saying no to drugs. The initiative aims to motivate young Indians to lead a fit, fulfilling, and healthy life through sports, rather than succumbing to the lure of drugs.

Voices of Support

Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer - Distribution & International Business and Head - Sports Business at Sony Pictures Networks India, expressed his support: "Sony Sports Network is extremely proud to launch the 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' movement. We sincerely believe that sports has the power to instil and bring about a positive change among the youth. In association with India's top athletes across disciplines, we are confident of making a statement and inspiring young India to stay away from the influence of drugs."

Conclusion

The 'Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar' movement represents a collective effort by India's sports icons and Sony Sports Network to create a significant impact on the nation's youth. By promoting a healthier, drug-free future, these legends aim to inspire young Indians to embrace sports and live like champions. Join this vital movement and be part of the change for a drug-free India.