Meghalaya Joins Nationwide Pledge to Build a Drug-Free, Developed India
In a significant move to combat substance abuse and promote healthy lifestyles, Meghalaya joined the nationwide ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat– Sankalp Abhiyan’ on Sunday. The campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was launched simultaneously at over 28,000 locations across the country, with more than one crore youths participating virtually.
A Statewide Effort to Combat Substance Abuse
The programme at Lok Bhavan in Shillong began with a welcome by MY Bharat volunteers, followed by opening remarks from Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya. Mandaviya highlighted the objectives of the campaign, stressing the importance of youth participation in combating substance abuse. A short film on the initiative was screened before the Prime Minister addressed participants virtually.
Meghalaya’s Educational Institutions Join the Cause
The event witnessed the participation of students and faculty members from several educational institutions across Meghalaya, including North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong, and Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU). Representatives from other universities and colleges in the state also attended the programme.
Taking the Pledge
Following the Prime Minister’s address, participants at Lok Bhavan took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to preventing substance abuse and promoting healthy and responsible lifestyles. The programme concluded with a street play presented by the state-level winners of a Nasha Mukti competition, highlighting the harmful effects of drug abuse and the need for collective efforts to curb substance abuse.
USTM Joins the Nationwide Programme
Meanwhile, the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) also joined the nationwide programme by organising a virtual viewing of the launch at its central auditorium. The programme was attended by Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) GD Sharma, and other dignitaries. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor reiterated USTM’s dedication to nurturing socially responsible citizens through quality education.
A Collective Resolve to Build a Healthier Society
The participants at USTM joined the Prime Minister’s live address, which reinforced the vital role of India’s youth in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat. The programme witnessed the participation of nearly 10,000 students, faculty members, NSS volunteers, and staff. The event concluded with a collective resolve to carry forward the Prime Minister’s message and strengthen the nationwide movement for a Nasha Mukt Bharat, paving the way for a healthier, stronger, and Viksit Bharat.
A Broader Effort to Combat Substance Abuse
The campaign forms part of the Centre’s broader effort to mobilise young people across the country in the fight against drug addiction and to promote a healthier and more productive society. With over one crore youths participating virtually, the nationwide event marked a significant step towards creating a drug-free, developed India.