NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental fitness in the youth while encouraging them to steer clear of drug abuse.
During his address, PM Modi underlined that achieving a developed India requires a healthy, confident, and drug-free youth. He highlighted the detrimental effects drugs have on individuals, their families, and careers.
Campaign Goals and Structure
Launching the campaign via video conferencing, PM Modi noted that this initiative is not just for individuals and families but for society and the nation as a whole. He stated that the next 100 Sundays would symbolize 100 strong steps towards achieving a drug-free India.
“Next 100 Sundays will mark 100 strong steps towards drug-free India,” he said.
Here are key quotes from his address:
Youth’s Role in National Development
“Today, all countrymen have come together for a great and important resolve. The campaign we are witnessing is meant for individuals, families and society, but above all, it is for the nation.”
He further stressed that for the country to reach its goal of becoming a developed India, it is critical for the youth to remain physically and mentally fit and avoid harmful substances. Highlighting the launch of this campaign as a pilot project from Kashi last year, PM Modi pointed out that over 125 spiritual organizations have joined efforts for the welfare of millions.
Significance of the Campaign
“By being addiction-free, you need to protect your potential. You need to be aware that drugs get you high for a short time but take your career and family to a new low/bottom.”
As the Member of Parliament from Kashi, Modi expressed pride in having initiated this campaign from such a revered location, combining scientific clarity with spiritual energy. He mentioned how social organizations and NGOs have collaborated to create a roadmap under the Kashi Declaration, reflecting the transition of a local initiative into a national movement.
“The ‘Nasha Mukta Yuva Abhiyaan’ is launching across the country today… There is immense power in collective action,” he stated.
The campaign aims to turn young people into ambassadors for positive social change within their communities while prompting them to avoid substance abuse. The launch initiates a 100-week nationwide Jan Bhagidari campaign that will feature awareness programs every Sunday.
Activities and Involvement
These activities will include sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programs, street plays, discussions, art competitions, and community engagement initiatives. The initiative aims to mobilize educational institutions, youth organizations, civil society groups, and over 125 spiritual organizations to cultivate a movement against substance abuse.
Youth from over 10,000 locations are set to participate through schools, colleges, universities, MY Bharat volunteers, NSS volunteers, youth clubs, NGOs, and industry associations. This collective action is aimed at fostering a healthier, drug-free generation in India.
