Nasha Mukt Bharat Campaign Reaches Over 35 Crore People, Including 13.94 Crore Youth

The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has reached more than 35 crore people across the country, including 13.94 crore youth and 10.86 crore women, while engaging over 32 lakh educational institutions, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment said on Thursday.

Launched on August 15, 2020, under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), the campaign initially covered 272 vulnerable districts before expanding nationwide. The initiative aims to combat substance abuse through awareness programmes, educational activities and collaboration with government departments, civil society organisations and local communities.

The ministry also highlighted Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks at the third National Conference of Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) heads of states and Union territories in New Delhi in September. Shah expressed confidence that India would uproot the drug trade by December 31, 2029, stressing coordinated action, clear targets and accountability to dismantle drug networks.

He also emphasised the need to protect young people from substance abuse as part of the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, the ministry said. Educational institutions, youth clubs, women's groups and local communities serve as key platforms for spreading awareness, encouraging early intervention and promoting healthy lifestyles. 'Nashamukt Mitras' also take awareness initiatives to schools, colleges and other institutions, helping young people access reliable information, counter misconceptions and seek assistance when required.

The campaign combines prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, aftercare and public awareness to reduce drug demand, tackle stigma associated with substance-use disorders and encourage early intervention. The ministry stressed that coordinated efforts by government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare providers, civil society, families and communities are essential to combat substance abuse and support recovery and social reintegration.