Is Drug Addiction Hindering the Vision of Viksit Bharat? Mansukh Mandaviya at Youth Spiritual Summit

Varanasi, July 19 (NationPress) Union Minister of Youth Affairs Mansukh Mandaviya cautioned on Saturday that addiction is ensnaring India's youth at a pivotal stage of their lives, presenting a significant barrier to the nation's developmental aspirations.

During the two-day Youth Spiritual Summit at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Varanasi, the minister highlighted the crucial role of youth in realizing a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.

The summit, centered around ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ (Addiction-Free Youth for a Developed India), was initiated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, attracting over 600 young delegates from 122 spiritual and socio-cultural organizations across the country.

In his address, Mandaviya recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from the Red Fort on August 15, 2022, where he outlined the ‘Panch Pran’ (Five Pledges) for Amrit Kaal - a roadmap for India's advancement over the next quarter-century.

“With 65 percent of our population below the age of 35, the youth serve as both the backbone and the torchbearers of this vision,” he stated.

Nevertheless, Mandaviya expressed his concerns regarding the escalating issue of substance abuse.

“Addiction is ensnaring our youth at a critical juncture in life and presenting a formidable challenge to national progress. If we aspire to see India developed by 2047, we must protect our youth from the grips of drugs, distractions such as mobile phones, and excessive social media,” he emphasized.

He called for a nationwide movement against addiction, urging spiritual and community leaders to utilize their influence and platforms to raise societal awareness.

“One-off events or singular efforts are inadequate. Each individual must commit to inspiring at least five people to join the anti-drug campaign,” he urged.

Mandaviya expressed optimism that the summit would foster meaningful discussions and yield actionable outcomes. He announced that the event would culminate on July 20 with the unveiling of the ‘Kashi Declaration’ - a visionary document reflecting the collective commitment of youth and spiritual leaders towards a drug-free India. This declaration will also act as a blueprint for policymakers, NGOs, and youth networks involved in de-addiction and rehabilitation initiatives.

Also present at the summit was Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, who echoed Mandaviya’s concerns. He characterized drug addiction as an escalating social threat and highlighted external influences that may be intensifying the problem.

“In recent years, we've observed a troubling trend of youth succumbing to substance abuse. Certain international forces may be exacerbating this crisis,” Kumar cautioned.

“However, our youth are resilient. They possess the ability to transform the impossible into the possible. We must channel their creativity and energy towards the goals of Viksit Bharat.”

He further emphasized the significance of holistic well-being.

“Youth should adopt yoga and prioritize health and wellness. This not only enhances physical fitness but also fortifies mental resilience - a vital defense against addiction.”