Chandigarh, April 26 -- Acknowledging the "significant influence" of khaps in society, chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday urged khap representatives to spearhead a campaign aimed at steering the youth away from drugs and support the bigger goal of a drug-free Haryana.

Addressing khap representatives from Haryana in Jind after flagging off the 'Cyclothon Yatra', Saini said that khaps have long been a source of values for the youth. He said khaps can play a key role in helping young people overcome drug addiction, a serious issue that is adversely impacting the entire society. The chief minister assured that whatever support khaps needed to combat drug addiction would be provided.

The chief minister said that while the 'Cyclothon ...