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MY Bharat Kendra, Chumoukedima, in collaboration with Patkai Christian College, organised the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan 2026 under the theme “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat-2047” at Patkai Christian College, Chumoukedima on August 11, 2026.

            Addressing the gathering as Guest of Honour, EAC, Seithekema, Er. Seyievilie Pfukri, NCS, said that substance abuse affected individuals, families and communities and also had wider social and economic consequences for the nation.

            He stated that substance abuse resulted in the loss of talented young people and their potential to contribute to society and stressed that addressing the issue required not only efforts to prevent the supply of drugs but also counselling, medical support and a supportive environment for those struggling with addiction. He said that the district administration was working to disrupt drug networks, but added that the strongest defence against substance abuse was a united community, with the youth playing an important role.

            Sharing his personal experiences of seeing relatives struggle with substance and alcohol abuse, Pfukri highlighted the difficulties involved in overcoming addiction, particularly in communities where guilt and stigma could make recovery more difficult. He called for greater understanding and support for those affected by addiction, to end stigma associated with it and encouraged the youth to choose positive activities and channel their energy towards constructive pursuits. He encouraged the students to make full use of the platform to showcase their talents and creativity and urged them to use painting, poetry and other creative forms to communicate positive messages and contribute towards building a drug-free society.

            He stated that the initiative is aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, which envisaged a developed nation supported by healthy, responsible and creative citizens. He said that every individual had a unique purpose and stressed the importance of creating an environment where young people could dream without fear, grow without addiction and succeed through their talents. He said that achieving a drug-free India was a collective responsibility of the Government, families, institutions and communities.

            Principal, Patkai Christian College, Dr. Thepfuvilie Pieru, said that the programme was a district-level competition under the Drug-Free India Campaign aimed at creating awareness among young people about the harmful effects of drug abuse. He stated that substance abuse, including alcohol abuse, could lead to serious health and psychological problems, injuries, violence, social isolation and strained family relationships. He identified peer pressure and depression as some of the factors that could contribute to substance abuse among the youth and stressed the need to educate young people about its consequences. He urged the students to make healthy and responsible choices and contribute towards building a healthy, prosperous and drug-free society.

            District Youth Officer, MY Bharat, K. Manikanta, described the fight against drug abuse as a real battle to protect the youth, families and society. He highlighted the joint efforts of the police and district administration in tackling the menace and stressed that the Government alone could not address the issue. He called for collective action from the Government, families, educational institutions and communities to protect young people from substance abuse and provide them with a positive environment for growth. He urged the youth to say no to drugs and yes to life.

            As part of the programme, the participants took the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat pledge. Vote of thanks was proposed by Nirendra Mushahary, Accounts Officer, MY Bharat.

            The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan is a nationwide movement aimed at preventing and reducing substance abuse through awareness, education, counselling, treatment and community participation. The initiative seeks to involve youth, families, educational institutions and communities in creating a supportive environment for prevention and recovery. Through collective efforts, the movement aims to build a healthier and drug-free society and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

           

            (Samuel, IA Chumoukedima)