India’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Marks Fifth Year with Nationwide Drug-Free Pledge

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/13th August 2024

As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) is commemorating its fifth year with a significant nationwide event. The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment is spearheading a mass pledge-taking ceremony aimed at combating drug abuse across the country. This initiative aligns with the theme of this year’s event: “Viksit Bharat ka Mantra, Bharat ho Nashe se Swatantra,” emphasizing the vision of a drug-free India.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, will lead the pledge at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, setting the tone for the nationwide campaign. The mass pledge will involve participants from various segments of society, including representatives from state and union territories, central ministries, students from schools, colleges, universities, engineering and medical institutions, as well as members of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), and other public organizations. This collective effort aims to mobilize a broad spectrum of the population in the fight against substance abuse.

Substance use disorder continues to pose a serious challenge to India’s social fabric. The consequences of dependence on psychoactive substances extend beyond individual health issues to impact families and communities. Regular use of these substances often leads to severe health problems, including neuro-psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and increased risks of accidents, suicides, and violence. Addressing substance use and dependence is thus crucial from a psycho-social-medical perspective.

Launched on August 15, 2020, the NMBA initiative is now being implemented in every district across India as of August 2023. The program’s primary goal is to enhance public awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and to promote preventive measures. It particularly focuses on educational institutions—such as schools, colleges, and universities—to identify and assist individuals struggling with substance dependence.

The NMBA aims to provide comprehensive support through counseling and treatment services available at hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Additionally, the program seeks to strengthen the capabilities of service providers through various capacity-building initiatives. By involving diverse stakeholders and harnessing widespread community participation, the NMBA strives to foster a drug-free environment and encourage healthier lifestyles.

This nationwide pledge-taking ceremony marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to combat drug abuse in India. By mobilizing educational institutions, public organizations, and individuals, the initiative underscores the collective responsibility to address the substance abuse crisis and promote a healthier, drug-free society.