In today’s world, school-going children are more exposed than ever to social pressures and temptations. With social media glorifying alcohol, vapes, and e-cigarettes as signs of being “cool,” many young minds slip unknowingly into habits that soon become hard to break. What begins as a casual experiment can turn into a dangerous dependency, quietly derailing futures.
Raju, a student of Class 8 in a Pune school, grew up in a low-income neighborhood where drinking was a common sight. He had seen families around him struggle with the consequences of addiction — arguments, neglect, and lost opportunities. For a long time, he had promised himself he would never fall into the same trap.
But one evening, at a friend’s party, Raju was offered alcohol. At first, he refused, remembering everything he had seen growing up. Yet, when his friends began to tease him and pressure mounted, he finally gave in. That single glass marked the beginning of a difficult path. His studies suffered, his focus waned, and slowly, the spark in his eyes began to fade.
Raju’s turning point came when his school introduced him to Saiyam, an addiction prevention initiative of Tarachand Ramnath Seva Trust. Through interactive sessions, group discussions, and awareness activities, Raju learned how addiction progresses — from Chahat (desire) to Aadat (habit) and eventually to Zaroorat (need). He began to see how small choices, repeated over time, can shape one’s life in powerful ways. For the first time, he understood that saying “no” was not a sign of weakness, but strength.
With constant encouragement and guidance from the Saiyam facilitators, Raju began to rebuild his confidence. He distanced himself from negative influences, reconnected with his teachers, and started focusing on his studies once again. The same boy who once felt lost in peer pressure is now setting an example for his friends — showing that real courage lies in self-control.
Raju’s story is one among many where early awareness made a life-changing difference. Through the Saiyam program, Tarachand Ramnath Seva Trust continues to guide young minds to make informed choices, helping them build healthier, addiction-free futures filled with purpose and hope.
Saiyam — it starts with you.
