The campaign launched via video conferencing, marks the beginning of a nationwide Jan Bhagidari (people's participation) movement led by MY Bharat youth volunteers.

Addressing the programme, Modi described the country's youth as the "Amrit peedhi" and urged them to stay away from drugs to realise the vision of a developed India, while saying their commitment to building a drug-free society had strengthened his belief in India's youth.

"This initiative is for an individual, family, society and, most importantly, for the country. When the country is moving forward towards the resolution of Viksit Bharat, the youth must be mentally and physically healthy and away from the problem of drugs," he said.

Under the initiative, awareness activities will be organised every Sunday across the country to encourage public participation in the government's vision of a "Nasha-Mukt Bharat" and the broader goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Prime Minister said the participation of young people from different walks of life had reinforced his faith in the country's youth.

"All of you have strengthened my belief that the youth of India is aware, socially conscious, and serious about their duties," he said.

Calling upon the younger generation to play a defining role in India's future, Modi said, "In the next 20-25 years, you will give direction to your lives. You will take India towards the resolution of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and reap the fruits of that achievement. The country needs your energy, creative imagination and talent. Hence, for the country and your own lives, keep yourselves away from drugs."

Warning against the dangers of substance abuse, the Prime Minister said drug addiction not only destroys individuals and families but also weakens the nation.

"When a young person falls prey to drug addiction, it is not just that individual who loses; a dream is lost," he said while adding, "The national strength also weakens and hostile countries conspire to drag our youth into the trap of addiction. Profiting from supplying drugs and aiming to destroy a nation like ours is also part of their terror agenda."

He urged families to seek professional help instead of hiding cases of addiction due to social stigma and appealed to parents, teachers and college professors to remain alert to behavioural changes among young people that could indicate substance abuse.

"Do not hide it behind the pressure of social reputation. Those who need help should seek support. Talk openly with them, take the help of experts and make efforts to free your child from addiction with the support of medical professionals," Modi said.

The Prime Minister also referred to the Kashi Declaration, a five-year roadmap for a drug-free India adopted during the Youth Spiritual Summit in Varanasi in July 2025. He said 125 spiritual organisations had joined hands to support the national campaign against drug abuse.

The 100-week campaign will feature sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programmes, awareness drives, nukkad nataks, discussion forums, art competitions and community engagement activities every Sunday across the country.

PTI