Delivering the address virtually, Modi said the campaign aims to keep the country’s youth mentally and physically fit and called for families and communities to join the effort. He described the drive as broader than an individual pledge — a movement for families, society and the nation — and said it ties directly to India’s goal of becoming a developed country.
“This is not just for youth; it is for their families and for the nation,” he said, adding that addiction breaks aspirations and shatters families. He urged society to stop stigmatizing those recovering from addiction, calling people who overcome substance abuse “fighters” who deserve respect and second chances.
Modi framed drug trafficking as a threat to national interests, calling it part of an “enemy nations’ terror plan.” He also urged families not to hide a member’s addiction because of social stigma, but to seek medical and expert help.
The launch marked the start of a 100-week “Jan Bhagidari” campaign, under which activities will be held every Sunday to raise awareness and encourage public participation. The programme will feature sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programmes, street theatre, discussion forums, art competitions and community outreach aimed at promoting de-addiction.
“From today, the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan is being launched across the country,” Modi said, adding that the next 100 Sundays will be “100 strong steps towards a drug-free India.” He said enforcement against traffickers has been stepped up, with a rise in arrests and seizures of narcotics worth thousands of crores.
Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Mansukh Mandaviya noted that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was first launched in 2020 and that the new initiative builds on that vision by mobilising youth as ambassadors of positive social change.
The campaign was launched amid heightened youth engagement nationwide, days after student protests demanding reforms in public examinations. Modi highlighted traditional tools such as yoga and meditation as part of community support for recovery and prevention.