Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (August 2, 2026) laid out a national vision for building a drug-free youth population as the foundation of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India). Stressing the need for sustained action and community participation to combat drug abuse, he said today’s youth would eventually enjoy the fruits of a developed India.

After launching the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan (Drug-Free Youth for Developed India Pledge Campaign), Mr. Modi said that as India has set the goal of becoming a developed country, it was essential for the youth to remain physically and mentally fit, and therefore stay away from drug abuse.

Supported by more than 125 spiritual and public organisations, educational institutions, and industrial associations, the programme was conducted at over 28,000 locations across the country and saw participation from over one crore youth, besides several Chief Ministers and Governors. Before the Prime Minister’s address, the participating youth pledged to make India drugs-free.

Mr. Modi said the initiative required collective action. “The pledge taken today will continue over the next 100 weeks. Every Sunday, activities related to art, culture, sports, meditation, spirituality, and service will be organised. The message of a drug-free life will reach more and more people,” he said.

“Over the next 20 to 25 years, you will shape your own lives, and by 2047, it is you who will lead India to the goal of becoming a developed country.