'Nasha-Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat' programme held at Akshardham temple
New Delhi, Aug 2
A special assembly titled "Nasha-Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" was held at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in the national capital on Sunday, with thousands of young men and women from the city and neighbouring regions attending the event.
The programme commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the youth virtually, inspiring them to embrace an addiction-free way of life.
The special assembly was organised at all BAPS centres simultaneously, across the country.
Prior to Prime Minister's address, Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami, a senior sadhu of BAPS, inspired the youth, saying, "Bhagwan Swaminarayan has commanded us to live a life free from addictions. Only one who is free from addictions can become a true Satsangi."
He said that PM Modi is inspiring the youth for this noble campaign, everyone should come forward with enthusiasm and devotion to support this initiative.
Notably, the youth, MY Bharat volunteers, NSS volunteers, and students from schools, colleges, and other educational institutions, along with more than 125 spiritual institutions, participated virtually in this programme from 10,000 locations across the country.
"Since the time of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, more than 3,000 sants and Paramhansas have travelled from village to village, inspiring people to lead addiction-free lives. Continuing this mission of de-addiction and public welfare, divine holiness Pramukh Swami ji Maharaj inspired more than five million people during his lifetime to give up addictions and embrace a pure and virtuous life. Those inspired included farmers, members of tribal communities, leading businessmen and public leaders," the BAPS said in a statement.
BAPS has been committedly spreading awareness about de-addiction and encouraging society to adopt an addiction-free lifestyle through various initiatives. Here is an account of major drives undertaken by the spiritual organisation.
In 1997, the BAPS organised de-addiction camps across villages and towns in Gujarat, helping many individuals overcome addictions. Mobile de-addiction exhibitions were conducted at numerous locations to spread awareness, inspiring many people to pledge to stay away from intoxicants.
In 2000, children between the ages of 9 and 14 formed 2,500 groups and visited homes across Gujarat, Mumbai, Kolkata and several other states, urging people to adopt an addiction-free life. As a result, lakhs of people took written pledges to give up gutka, drugs, smoking and alcohol.
In 2007, around 23,000 children and youths reached out to 2.1 million people across India through a nationwide de-addiction campaign, of whom 6,30,000 people pledged to give up addictions. Former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam met BAPS children and youth volunteers at Rashtrapati Bhavan, appreciated their efforts and felicitated them for their dedicated service.
In 2022, during the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations and the birth centenary celebrations of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS youths once again actively participated in de-addiction campaigns across the country, inspiring lakhs of people to lead pure and virtuous lives.
"Today, under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, countless individuals have transformed their lives by embracing an addiction-free lifestyle," it said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, a serious push against the drug menace that's destroying our young generation. The PM's virtual address and the massive participation from 10,000 locations shows this isn't just a photo-op. My cousin was addicted to smoking for years, and such campaigns helped him quit. More power to this mission! 💪
While the intent is good, I hope such programs also address mental health support and counselling for those already struggling with addiction. It shouldn't just be about making pledges but also providing rehabilitation. Still, a step in the right direction.
As someone from the US, it's fascinating to see how cultural and spiritual institutions drive social change in India. The long history of de-addiction work by BAPS, starting from the 90s, is really impressive. Wish we had such strong community support systems here.
Very proud of our youth volunteers who went door-to-door in 2000 and 2007 campaigns—inspiring lakhs to give up gutka and alcohol. This shows the power of positive peer pressure. The PM's call for a 'Nasha-Mukt Yuva' is timely, especially with the rising drug problem in Punjab and border areas. 🇮🇳
It's wonderful to see faith-based initiatives supporting public health. The scale of outreach is commendable. But I also hope the government focuses on strict enforcement of drug laws and border controls, since de-addiction campaigns alone can't solve the supply problem. Good on both fronts would be ideal.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.