Mann Ki Baat ep 138: Modi praises youth in Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 27 September 2026, used the 138th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat to commend India's youth for their active participation in the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan, a nationwide anti-drug campaign, and urged all citizens to stay alert to substance abuse in their communities, particularly as the festive season approaches.
What the Campaign Involves
The Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan is slated to run for 100 weeks and is drawing participation from volunteers affiliated with the My Bharat platform, as well as members of the National Service Scheme (NSS). Schools, colleges, universities, and several social and spiritual organisations have joined the initiative, with pledge ceremonies and awareness programmes already held across the country in recent days.
'Young people associated with NSS are also a part of the campaign. Schools, colleges and universities have also joined in, along with several social and spiritual organisations,' Modi said during the broadcast.
Youth Creativity at the Centre
Modi highlighted that what impressed him most was the manner in which young people are spreading the anti-addiction message through their own creative formats — in their own languages and through their own mediums. He noted that competitions on the My Bharat app, covering anthem and slogan writing as well as street plays, have drawn thousands of participants. Youth are also amplifying the campaign on social media using the hashtag #NASHAMUKTYUVA.
'Our young people are spreading the message of quitting addiction in their own language and through their own methods. I had urged our young friends during Mann Ki Baat (earlier) to join this campaign through their own creativity. I am happy to see that thousands of youths have responded to this call,' Modi said.
Upcoming Health and Medical Activities
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister said the campaign will expand to include health checkups and medication camps as part of its anti-drug outreach. These activities are intended to provide tangible support to those seeking to overcome substance dependence, going beyond awareness alone.
Festive Season Alert and Community Responsibility
Modi also directed a message at ordinary citizens, urging them to watch out for youth who may be drifting toward drug use, especially during the upcoming festive period. He called for a community-driven response — encouraging conversation with those at risk and support for those attempting to quit.
'If a young person is heading towards a bad habit, around you, talk to him. If someone is willing to quit drugs, support them. Let us all come together to take forward the resolve of Nasha Mukt Yuva and Viksit Bharat,' he said.
This comes amid a broader government push to address substance abuse among youth as part of its Viksit Bharat vision. The 138th Mann Ki Baat episode marks another step in converting campaign pledges into on-ground action through institutional and civil society networks.