New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ through a nationwide video conference, addressing over one crore young citizens connected from more than 28,000 locations across the country. The Prime Minister said that achieving the goal of a developed India requires a physically fit, mentally strong, and self-confident younger generation that stays away from substance abuse.
A 100-Week Nationwide Campaign
The initiative marks the beginning of a 100-week Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) campaign against substance abuse, under which weekly activities will be organised every Sunday across the country. These will include sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programmes, nukkad nataks (street plays), discussion forums, art competitions, and community engagement drives aimed at spreading awareness and encouraging public participation in building a drug-free society. “The coming 100 Sundays will absolutely become 100 strong steps in the direction of a completely drug-free India,” Modi said.
“Not Just for Individuals, But for the Nation”
Modi described the campaign as one that extends beyond individual wellness to benefit families, society, and the country as a whole, saying its very name reflected its purpose and resolve. He noted that the initiative began last year as a pilot project in Kashi (Varanasi) and has since grown into a national movement backed by more than 125 spiritual organisations and NGOs.
A Message of Support for Those in Recovery
Addressing those recovering from addiction, the Prime Minister called for societal respect and second chances, rejecting the stigma often associated with past struggles. He described youth overcoming addiction as “real warriors,” and said their courage represented their true identity, adding that the government would continue to stand alongside them through sustained enforcement action against drug trafficking, including large-scale seizures and arrests of traffickers and smugglers.
Context: Campaign Follows Recent Student Protests
The launch came days after large-scale student protests over reforms to the public examination system swept through Delhi and other parts of the country, following the CJP-led demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. The Prime Minister described the country’s youth as the “Amrit generation,” saying their energy, innovation, and talent would be central to achieving the goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Note: This report is based on the Prime Minister’s remarks at the launch event and statements from Union ministers present.
