Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a stronger public movement against substance abuse among young people while also renewing his appeal for citizens to support locally made Indian products.
Addressing the nation through the 137th episode of his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio programme, Modi highlighted the importance of collective participation in tackling drug addiction. He particularly appealed to content creators and social media influencers to use their platforms and creativity to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
The Prime Minister said the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign is gaining momentum across the country. The campaign seeks to encourage young people to stay away from substance abuse and participate in efforts to create a healthier and more responsible society.
Modi emphasised that drug addiction does not affect only the individual who consumes substances. Families and communities can also face serious consequences when addiction takes hold. He appreciated individuals and organisations that are working to create awareness and support people affected by addiction.
The Prime Minister also called upon young content creators to contribute to the campaign by producing meaningful material in different languages. Social media platforms, short videos, creative campaigns and other forms of digital content can be used to communicate the message of a drug-free lifestyle to a wider audience.
The government has already launched the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan as a nationwide public participation campaign. The initiative includes activities such as sports events, walkathons, meditation programmes, cultural activities, awareness drives, street plays and creative competitions. The programme is designed to involve young people and community organisations in sustained efforts against substance abuse.
Alongside the drug-free India campaign, Modi renewed his Vocal for Local appeal ahead of the festive season. He encouraged citizens to purchase Indian-made products and support domestic manufacturers, entrepreneurs, artisans and businesses.
The festive season is traditionally an important period for consumer spending in India. Increased demand for locally manufactured products can provide opportunities for small businesses and local producers. The Prime Minister therefore urged consumers to consider Indian products when making purchases during the festive period.
The Vocal for Local message is also linked to the broader objective of strengthening domestic economic activity. Greater demand for locally produced goods can support businesses operating within India and encourage entrepreneurs to expand their operations.
Modi's appeal comes as several government initiatives seek to increase youth participation in nation-building while promoting entrepreneurship and domestic production. The combination of social awareness and economic participation was a major theme of his latest Mann Ki Baat address.
The Prime Minister's two appeals focus on different areas but share a common emphasis on public participation. The drug-free youth campaign seeks to encourage young people to make healthy choices and help spread awareness within their communities. The Vocal for Local initiative seeks to encourage consumers to support Indian businesses through their purchasing decisions.
The government has also been encouraging citizens and organisations to participate in the drug-free campaign through community-based activities. According to official information, the nationwide initiative is planned as a sustained 100-week public participation movement, with activities organised regularly to keep young people engaged in awareness, fitness, cultural and community programmes.
Through his latest Mann Ki Baat address, Modi urged citizens, particularly young people and digital creators, to contribute to both social and economic priorities. The focus on a drug-free generation and support for Indian products reflects the government's broader emphasis on public participation, youth engagement and domestic economic development.
The Prime Minister's message is expected to encourage more content creators, youth organisations and citizens to participate in awareness campaigns against substance abuse while also motivating consumers to give greater preference to locally manufactured products during the festive season.