Drug trade part of hostile nations' terror agenda: PM Modi cautions youth against addiction
New Delhi, Aug 2
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that hostile nations are attempting to weaken India by pushing drugs into the country and targeting its youth, describing the illegal drug trade as part of an enemy's "terror agenda".
Addressing young people during the launch of the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan', the Prime Minister urged them to stay away from addiction and play a leading role in building a developed India by 2047.
Speaking at the launch of the nationwide campaign, PM Modi said, "When a young person falls prey to drug addiction, it is not just that individual who loses; a dream is lost."
He said that the consequences of addiction extend beyond individuals and families, affecting the nation's overall strength. "The national strength also weakens and hostile countries conspire to leave no stone unturned to drag our youth into the trap of addiction," he said.
Describing narcotics trafficking as a deliberate strategy to harm India, the Prime Minister added, "Profiting from supplying drugs and aiming to destroy a nation like ours is also part of their terror agenda. Hence, we need to save every youth from addiction. You need to protect your potential by staying away from drugs."
Warning youngsters about the long-term consequences of substance abuse, he remarked, "Drugs give you a high for a while, but they destroy your family."
Calling upon the youth to shoulder the responsibility of shaping the country's future, PM Modi said, "In the next 20-25 years, you will give a direction to your lives. You will be the ones who will take India towards the resolution of Viksit Bharat till 2047, and you will be the ones sitting at the top of the peak, fully savouring the fruits of that achievement. The country needs your energy, creative imagination and talent. Hence, for the country and your own lives, keep yourselves away from drugs."
He stated that the commitment of the new generations towards eradicating the problem of drug addiction from society has reaffirmed his belief that the youth of India is "aware, socially conscious, and serious about their duties".
The Prime Minister stressed that the next 100 Sundays will mark 100 strong steps towards a drug-free India. He also mentioned that the activities under this initiative will include sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programmes, awareness campaigns, etc.
"As an MP from Kashi, I am happy that last year, this project was launched from the holy land of Kashi as a pilot project. Therefore, in addition to scientific clarity, it also possesses spiritual energy, the blessings of saints, and cultural heritage. It also embodies the cultural dedication that has rejected addiction for centuries. This is why the country's 125 spiritual organisations are working tirelessly to serve millions of citizens," he mentioned, adding that all these institutions adopted the Kashi Declaration -- a 5-year roadmap for a drug-free India adopted in July 2025, at the Youth Spiritual Summit in Varanasi.
"All of you have strengthened my belief that the youth of India is aware, socially conscious, and serious about their duties," he added.
Highlighting the importance of rehabilitation, PM Modi said, "Do not hide it behind the pressure of social reputation. Those who need help should seek support. Talk openly with them, take the help of experts, and make efforts to free your child from addiction with the support of medical professionals. We should also create a culture of open communication with children within the family so that we can hold their hands before they get trapped in such a situation."
"You will get signs if you pay a little attention- you may notice changes in their behaviour. They may appear lost, start hiding their face, remain locked in their rooms, come home late at night, or demand unnecessary amounts of money. These are some indications that something may be wrong. I would also like to appeal to our professor friends in colleges and universities: Along with academic studies, please talk to students about the dangers of drugs," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an NRI living in Canada, I see how drug addiction has ruined so many young lives here. It's heartening to see India taking proactive measures. The emphasis on open communication with children and not hiding addiction behind social reputation is crucial. Growing up in India, mental health and addiction were taboo topics. Glad the conversation is changing.
Honestly, this is a serious issue that needs multi-pronged approach. While PM's warning about hostile nations is valid, we also need to address the root causes - unemployment, peer pressure, and lack of recreational activities for youth. I'm glad the campaign includes sports events and meditation sessions. But let's also invest in vocational training and job creation so youth have better alternatives. Just my two cents. 🙏
Interesting perspective. I work in law enforcement in the US and we see similar patterns - drug cartels operating almost like terror networks. India's geographic proximity to the Golden Crescent makes it vulnerable. The approach of involving spiritual organizations and cultural institutions is uniquely Indian and quite brilliant actually. These institutions have deep trust within communities.
He's right about the social stigma part. My cousin went through rehab and everyone in the family treated it like a shameful secret. Instead of supporting him, people judged. This "log kya kahenge" mentality is dangerous. I'm glad PM talked about creating open communication within families. It's time we normalize seeking help for addiction like any other illness.
The "Nasha Mukt Yuva" initiative sounds promising! As a college professor, I see vulnerable
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