VIHAAN Walkathon

1. Introduction
   • Purpose of the walkathon:
     1. To ensure that the SIU policy against substance use (No alcohol, No tobacco, No drugs) at campuses and strict compliance to the same is reinforced through this walkathon.
     2. To encourage physical activity as a healthy coping mechanism for students, staff & faculty.
   • Importance of addressing substance use at the University Campus:

     Substance use among students in India is a growing concern with serious implications for public health, education, and social development. The student population, particularly in the age group of 15–24, is highly vulnerable due to various factors such as academic stress, peer pressure, curiosity, and the desire for social acceptance. The easy availability of substances like alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and synthetic drugs further exacerbates the problem.

     According to reports by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and AIIMS (2019), a significant percentage of Indian youth have experimented with or are regularly using substances. Early initiation can lead to long-term addiction, mental health disorders, poor academic performance, and increased risk of dropping out. It also puts students at greater risk of engaging in risky behaviors and facing legal or disciplinary actions.

     HEI (Higher Education Institutions) play a critical role in shaping young minds and promoting healthy lifestyles. Addressing substance use on campus is not just about enforcement but about education, awareness, and creating a supportive environment. Campaigns such as VIHAAN walkathons can be powerful tools to initiate dialogue, break stigma, and encourage students to seek help or make informed choices.

     By taking proactive steps, educational institutions can help students lead healthier lives, improve academic outcomes, and contribute to a safer, more aware society.

   • Objectives of the VIHAAN Walkathon:
     1. To create awareness about health hazards of substance use & create a positive peer pressure at SIU campuses.
     2. To ensure all stakeholders attention on this important issue and bring about collaborative efforts in reducing substance use at campuses.
     3. To promote physical activity (walking) as a routine practice by all stakeholders
2. Key outcomes & Highlights:
   • VIHAAN Walkathon was organized to create awareness, generate sensitivity about substance use (alcohol, tobacco & illicit drugs) and encourage physical activity as a healthy coping mechanism
   • Key outcomes-

     Total Campuses: 12

     Total Institutes/ Departments participated: 27

     Total number of participants (Students, staff & faculty): 1687

     Students' participation: 1402

     Staff participation: 175

     Faculty participation: 108

     Non SIU (Community members): 2

     

     Highlight: A mascot (named VIHAAN) was used to attract students’ participation through the help of branding & communication department of FoMHS

     

     The fox like figure represented the current generation which is smart but indecisive at times. The hoodie worn by VIHAAN represented all the support mechanisms, including counsellors & parents that give VIHAAN a hope & encouragement (through the lantern hold in in his hand) to stay away from substance use. The lantern also symbolizes the awareness & evidence-based information shared about hazards of substance use.

     Campus wise participation:

     Campus	Number of Participants
     Lavale Hill Top	45
     Lavale Hill Base	290
     Senapati Bapat Road	96
     Hinjewadi	428
     Viman Nagar	25
     Model Colony + Kirkee	108
     Nashik	192
     Nagpur	166
     Hyderabad	237
     Noida	101

     

     During the VIHAAN Walkathon, the slogans were rehearsed and posters received from competitions were presented during the walkathon for creating awareness across communities.

3. Event photos
   

   Lavale Hill Top Campus (with Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr Raman Sir)

   

   Lavale Hill Base (Arogya Dham Campus)

   

   Senapati Bapat Road Campus (Walkathon from SB Road to Fergusson College Road)

   

   Hinjewadi Campus

   

   Viman Nagar Campus

   

   Noida Campus

   

   Hyderabad Campus

   

   Nashik Campus

   

   Nagpur Campus

   We thank the SIU Management, Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr Ramakrishnan Raman Sir, Provost (FoMHS) Dr Rajiv Yeravdekar Sir, and Director (SSSS) Dr Nayana Nimkar Madam for the support and active encouragement in the successful conduct of VIHAAN Walkathon across the SIU Campuses.a

   We also acknowledge the efforts & enthusiasm by participants during the walkathon that shows their active commitment to this purpose-driven walkathon.a

   Stay Active, Stay Fit !!a

   Stay away from alcohol, tobacco & illicit drugs!!!a