Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' on Sunday to mobilize Indian youth against substance abuse [1].

The initiative links public health with national development, framing the fight against drug addiction as a prerequisite for achieving a developed India. By targeting the youth demographic, the government seeks to prevent the long-term erosion of human capital, and familial stability.

Modi addressed the nation via video-conferencing for the launch event, which was hosted at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh [2]. The nationwide campaign is scheduled to run for 100 weeks [3].

During the address, Modi described substance abuse as a threat to national security. "Drugs are part of enemy nations' terror plan to hurt India," he said [4]. He emphasized that the physical and mental well-being of the younger generation is essential for the country's future growth.

"To achieve the target of a developed India, the country's youth must remain mentally and physically fit, and stay away from all kinds of substance abuse," Modi said [5].

The Prime Minister urged young citizens to prioritize their health to ensure they can contribute effectively to the 'Viksit Bharat' vision. He said to "stay physically and mentally fit and remain away from drug abuse" [6].

The campaign intends to increase public participation in anti-drug efforts through community mobilization, and awareness programs. By framing drug use as a strategic vulnerability, the administration is positioning the campaign as both a social welfare project and a matter of national resilience.

“"Drugs are part of enemy nations' terror plan to hurt India."”

This campaign signals a shift in the Indian government's approach to drug abuse, moving from a purely law-enforcement model to one that integrates public health with nationalistic goals. By linking the 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) objective to the sobriety of its youth, the administration is treating substance abuse as a strategic hurdle to economic and geopolitical ambitions.