Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel urges youth to fight substance abuse and Yamuna pollution at Anandotsava 2026, attended by 2,500 students from 79 Delhi schools
NEW DELHI: Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, former Supreme Court judge and former chairperson of the National Green Tribunal, has called on young people to take an active role in combating substance abuse and protecting the environment. He addressed students during the 40th edition of Anandotsava ’26, organised by Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar, which brought together 2,500 students from 79 schools across Delhi.
The three-day interschool festival, being held from October 14 to 16, focuses on spiritual values, environmental responsibility and social awareness. Justice Pritam Pal, Vice-President of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar; Santosh Kapoor, its President; and Yogi Suri, National President of Arya Yuva Samaj and Managing Editor of Milap Publications, also attended the programme.
Anandotsava 2026 Promotes a Drug-Free India
The festival’s opening day on October 14 focused on No Nasha Nation, a youth awareness campaign led by Yogi Suri. The initiative aims to educate young people about substance abuse and encourage a drug-free India.
Addressing the gathering, Justice Goel highlighted the legacy of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati and stressed the need to sustain youth-led efforts against addiction. He said a lack of awareness can make young people vulnerable to substance abuse and that addiction can be difficult to overcome.
He encouraged students to recognise their potential and channel their energy towards meaningful contributions to society rather than allowing substance abuse to affect their future.
Justice Pritam Pal Stresses the Importance of Humanity
Justice Pritam Pal highlighted the importance of character and compassion, recalling a message often shared by Justice Goel: “Whether you become something or not, you must become a good human being.”
Reflecting on their professional association as judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Pritam Pal said Justice Goel consistently placed humanity above professional status. He emphasised that good human beings contribute to society by improving both their own lives and the lives of others.
YaRI Initiative Raises Awareness About Yamuna Pollution
The second day of Anandotsava ’26 focused on YaRI, or the Yamuna Action River Initiative. The programme aimed to raise awareness about Yamuna pollution and encourage students to take collective responsibility for protecting the river.
Yogi Suri spoke about Mahatma Anand Swamiji’s life, his devotion to the Vedas and his respect for nature. He encouraged students to incorporate these values into their daily lives and promote environmental awareness.
Vibha Khosla, Principal of Modern School, Vasant Vihar, presented the Yamuna River Initiative and highlighted the importance of educating young people about environmental challenges. Students of Mahatma Anand Swami Primary School delivered a special presentation, while a street play titled YaRI – Our Responsibility highlighted Yamuna pollution and the need for collective action.
Student Performances Mark the 40th Edition
The programme began with DAV Gaan and a presentation on Mahatma Anand Swamiji’s life and teachings. The school choir performed Keep Smiling as a musical tribute to Swamiji. The ceremony also included the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a balloon release and a folk dance performance.
Students participated in various interschool competitions throughout the day, combining cultural activities with messages on social responsibility and environmental protection.
Anandotsava ’26 will conclude on October 16 with a valedictory programme featuring Padma Shri Dr. Punam Suri, President of the DAV College Managing Committee and the 21st President of the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha. The final day will include student performances, a felicitation ceremony and prize distribution.
