Bhubaneswar, 02 August (H.S.): The ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva – Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ was formally launched in Odisha with a strong commitment to building a completely drug-free society. More than one crore youth across the country participated in the campaign, taking a pledge to stay away from substance abuse and contribute to a healthier and developed India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the national programme virtually and addressed the youth.
The state-level event was held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar and was attended by Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Suryabanshi Suraj. Hundreds of students also participated through virtual platforms. On the occasion, the Governor administered the anti-drug pledge to all attendees.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Dr. Kambhampati described the youth as the backbone of nation-building and called upon them to play a leading role in creating a drug-free society. He emphasized that sports, fitness, yoga, discipline, and social service are the most effective alternatives to substance abuse. Urging young people to choose playgrounds and classrooms over addiction, he highlighted that a drug-free society cannot be achieved by government efforts alone, and requires active participation from parents, teachers, social organizations, and the youth themselves.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the initiative would not remain a one-day event but would evolve into a sustained mass movement for the next 100 weeks, spanning nearly two years. He reiterated the state government’s firm commitment to making Odisha completely drug-free.
Praising the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister stated that the vision of a developed India by 2047 would be driven by the energy and innovation of Gen Z. He noted that substance abuse is no longer merely a health issue but has emerged as a serious social and economic challenge, weakening both the physical and mental capabilities of youth and adversely affecting families.
Reaffirming a ‘Zero Tolerance’ policy against drug trafficking, the Chief Minister shared enforcement data, stating that between July 2024 and June 2026, Odisha Police destroyed illegal cannabis cultivation spread over 63,720 acres, valued at approximately ₹1,911 crore. In addition, 2,576 cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 3,699 accused, and seizure of 432 tonnes of cannabis worth around ₹2,106 crore.
He further stated that the government is not only focusing on strict law enforcement but is also strengthening rehabilitation and treatment facilities for individuals affected by substance abuse. He urged citizens to immediately report any suspicious drug-related activities to the police.
Expressing concern over the increasing attraction of youth towards dangerous substances such as brown sugar, cocaine, and synthetic drugs, the Chief Minister said the government is addressing the issue on a war footing. Recent seizures of synthetic drugs in Bhubaneswar and strict action against drug mafias in Balasore were cited as examples.
Issuing a stern warning to drug traffickers, he said that those who continue to endanger the lives of youth would face stringent legal action, including bulldozer measures. He also appealed to the youth to adopt a healthy lifestyle and take the pledge to “Say No to Drugs.”
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister called upon educational institutions, youth organizations, NSS units, MY Bharat volunteers, industries, NGOs, and the media to work collectively to turn the campaign into a people’s movement. He urged everyone to embrace the message: “Say No to Drugs and Yes to Life and Progress.”
Minister Suryabanshi Suraj also highlighted the importance of discipline and the potential of youth, stating that students from schools, colleges, MY Bharat clubs, NSS units, and sports hostels would serve as key drivers of the campaign.
The initiative received an overwhelming response across Odisha. Live streaming of the programme was conducted at 453 centres, with over 1.6 lakh participants joining and reaffirming their commitment to a drug-free society.
The event began with a welcome address by Sports Department Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Department Director Yedulla Vijay.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
