100-week national drive kickstarted at SKUAST-Kashmir; rehab scheme for drug victims to be rolled out soon
Srinagar, Aug 2 (GNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday attended the UT-level launch of the “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan” at SKUAST-Kashmir, underlining the Centre’s push to make India’s youth the face of a drug-free and developed nation.
The 100-week nationwide campaign was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It aims to mobilize young people for healthy living and greater participation in nation-building.
Addressing students and youth organizations, as per GNS, the LG Sinha said India’s biggest asset is its young population, with nearly 65% citizens below 35 years of age and 37 crore in the 15-29 bracket ready to contribute to development.
“The Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan is meant to channelize this energy. Our youth must rise like a cloud of energy and cover the entire landscape of progress,” he said.
The LG noted that the anti-drug campaign launched in 2020 is now a people’s movement, not just a government program. It focuses on self-discipline, positive mindset and strong will. Over 1 crore youth are joining the 100-week drive at around 10,000 locations across the country. More than 35,000 MY Bharat clubs, Nehru Yuva Kendras, schools, colleges and industry bodies are part of the weekly outreach.
Congratulating J&K youth for their role in the 100-day “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan” held from April 11 to July 20, Sinha said the UT’s model has drawn national attention. Joint efforts by administration, police, civil society, educational and religious institutions showed that collective action can defeat major challenges, he added.
Highlighting results, the LG said around 2,300 FIRs were filed, 2,600 people arrested and 1,500 kg of narcotics seized during the J&K drive. Properties worth nearly Rs 200 crore belonging to narco-terrorists and smugglers were attached, while 370 driving licenses and 750 vehicle registrations were cancelled. Action has also been recommended for cancellation of close to 3,000 Aadhaar cards.
While enforcement will continue, Sinha stressed that awareness and rehabilitation are equally vital. He announced that the “Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026” will be launched soon.
The pilot will start in two worst-hit districts of Kashmir and Jammu. The 3-year program will cover medical care, counselling, education, skill training, jobs, reintegration and follow-up. “Those trapped in drugs are victims. We must restore their dignity, livelihood and future,” he said.
The LG urged parents, teachers and youth volunteers to carry the message to every village, school and college. “Families and teachers are the biggest mentors. MY Bharat and NYK volunteers must take this campaign to the grassroots,” he said.
“A healthy youth, a strong family, and a conscious society will define Viksit Bharat,” Sinha said, while administering the Nasha Mukt Yuva pledge to those present.
Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Commissioner/Secretary Youth Services & Sports Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, MY Bharat J&K Director Nitin Hangloo, senior officials, NYK members, youth club representatives and a large number of students attended the event.(GNS)
