New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for a stronger collective effort to keep India’s youth away from drugs, saying a drug-free society is essential for the country’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.
Speaking during the 137th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Modi highlighted the government’s Nasha-mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign and said young people across the country were increasingly participating in efforts to raise awareness about drug abuse.
He urged content creators to use India’s diverse languages to spread messages about the dangers of narcotics and encourage those battling addiction to seek a path towards recovery.
PM asks creators to use music, theatre against drugs
Modi said drug addiction does not affect only individuals but can have a damaging impact on entire families and communities.
He praised people working to create awareness about substance abuse and called upon artists and digital creators to produce songs, slogans and short plays that communicate the risks associated with drugs while also presenting recovery as a possibility.
The Prime Minister said the government’s objective was straightforward — to ensure that India’s young population remains free from addiction and contributes towards the country’s development.
August strengthens patriotic spirit
The Prime Minister also reflected on the patriotic significance of August, pointing to several important national occasions observed during the month.
He mentioned National Handloom Day, Independence Day and National Space Day, besides anniversaries associated with the Quit India Movement and Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.
Modi said initiatives such as Har Ghar Tiranga have further strengthened the connection between citizens and the national flag.
He also noted that this year marks the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, adding that celebrations surrounding the Tricolour had extended beyond India’s borders through initiatives such as Suryapath Tiranga.
PM SVANidhi helps women expand businesses
Modi also spoke about the impact of the PM SVANidhi scheme, saying it has helped around 35 lakh women expand their businesses.
He emphasised the wider social impact of women’s economic progress, saying that when a woman strengthens her business, the benefits extend to her entire household and improve the family’s prospects.
Cleanliness efforts praised
Cleanliness was another major theme of the Prime Minister’s address. Modi cited the efforts of young people involved in the ‘Clean-up Patwai’ initiative in Uttar Pradesh, who worked to clean ponds and public spaces.
He also highlighted sanitation efforts during this year’s Shri Amarnath Yatra, where sanitation workers worked along difficult pilgrimage routes.
An environmental initiative during the yatra also drew attention, with dung generated by horses and mules being converted into biogas. The resulting clean energy was used for the ‘Swachh Jyot’, combining pilgrimage management with an effort to promote cleaner energy.
Push for ‘Vocal for Local’
Ahead of the festive season, Modi renewed his appeal for people to choose Indian-made products, linking the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign with the broader goal of making India more self-reliant.
He urged citizens to support domestic products while celebrating upcoming festivals.
The Prime Minister also remembered legendary actor Uttam Kumar, whose birth centenary will be observed on September 3.
Concluding his address, Modi said India’s festivals are not merely occasions for celebration but also provide opportunities for people to stay connected with their traditions, communities and one another.
