Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’, a 100-week nationwide campaign to combat drug abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free India.
New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday virtually launched the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’, a nationwide initiative aimed at creating a drug-free India through public participation and youth engagement.
Addressing the launch event from New Delhi, the Prime Minister said that as India moves towards becoming a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), the country’s youth must remain physically fit, mentally strong, and confident while staying away from substance abuse.
100-Week Nationwide Anti-Drug Drive
PM Modi announced that the campaign will run for 100 weeks as a nationwide Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) movement. Under the initiative, awareness activities will be held every Sunday across the country to educate citizens about the dangers of drug addiction and encourage collective action against substance abuse.
Drug Addiction Destroys Lives and the Nation
Highlighting the impact of addiction, the Prime Minister said drug abuse diverts young people from their goals, damages careers, destroys families, and weakens the nation. He urged youth to adopt a healthy lifestyle and understand the long-term consequences of substance abuse.
Families Urged to Seek Timely Help
PM Modi appealed to families not to hide cases of addiction due to social stigma. Instead, he encouraged them to seek medical assistance, consult experts, and maintain open communication with affected family members to ensure timely recovery.
He also listed early warning signs of substance abuse, including:
- Social isolation
- Sudden behavioural changes
- Avoiding conversations
- Staying out late frequently
- Repeatedly asking for money
Role of Schools and Colleges
The Prime Minister called upon teachers, professors, and educational institutions to regularly discuss the harmful effects of drugs with students and organise awareness programmes on campuses. He said educational institutions can play a crucial role in preventing substance abuse among young people.
Over One Crore Youth Join the Launch
According to the government, more than one crore young people from 28,000 locations across India participated in the virtual launch. The event witnessed participation from Governors, Chief Ministers, MY Bharat and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, along with representatives from schools, colleges, universities, youth clubs, NGOs, and spiritual organisations.
The government expects the campaign to strengthen public awareness and mobilise communities across the country in support of a healthier, drug-free India.
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