MoU signed between Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and ISKCON under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan

New Delhi, November  23

In a significant stride towards combating drug abuse, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in New Delhi between the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan on Thursday. The initiative aims to synergize efforts in curbing drug usage, especially among the youth which aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a substance-free India. More on this from our correspondent:

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was launched on 15th August 2020 by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It is presently being implemented in 372 identified most vulnerable districts. The aim of the Abhiyaan is to create awareness about the ill effects of substance abuse among the youth, with a special focus on higher education institutes, university campuses and schools.

Since its launch, a wide range of activities have been conducted throughout the country that has fostered participation from all quarters of society and stakeholders. Talking to Akashwani News, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister, Dr. Virendra Kumar said that participation and collaboration with social organizations will help weed out the menace of substance abuse from society.

Over 10 crore individuals have been reached under the Abhiyaan with a multifaceted approach including workshops, counseling, street plays, marathons, and engagement through youth organizations including National Service Scheme and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan. Over 500 Nasha Mukti Kendra have been geotagged for easy accessibility. The involvement of Anganwadi and Asha workers along with the NMVA mobile app and discussion forums has turned the initiative into a nationwide movement.