New Delhi, Dec 25: In a major step towards a drug-free India, the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment signed a landmark MoU with Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and the University of Patanjali under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). The event was held at Samrasta Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, with Union Minister Dr. Virender Kumar and senior officials from all participating organisations in attendance.
Minister Calls for Unified Action
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Virender Kumar emphasized that the fight against drug addiction is a shared social responsibility. “This is not just a government task; it is a societal responsibility. Only together can we guide our youth back to the right path,” he said. The minister highlighted that partnerships with spiritual and faith based organisations would enhance NMBA’s outreach and help achieve the goal of a drug sensitive India.
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan: Local to National Impact
Launched on 15th August 2020, NMBA initially focused on 272 most vulnerable districts and has now expanded to cover all districts of India, creating awareness about substance use among students in schools, colleges, and universities. The campaign emphasizes education, dialogue, and positive engagement to prevent drug abuse in communities.
Massive Reach Across the Country
Since its inception, NMBA has impacted over 25.7 crore people, including 9.2 crore youth and 6.3 crore women. Nearly 16 lakh educational institutions have participated in awareness programs. The campaign has collaborated with eight major spiritual organisations, including The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, and University of Patanjali, to conduct nationwide awareness initiatives.
By integrating spiritual guidance with government-led awareness, NMBA aims to foster a drug-free and healthy India, encouraging citizens to take active roles in combating substance abuse.