Goa Stands United in Massive Youth Rally Against Drug Abuse; Over 3,000 Youth Pledge Support to Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the Presence of Dr. Pramod Sawant, Dr. Virendra Kumar and Shri Subhash Phal Desai
Goa Stands United in Massive Youth Rally Against Drug Abuse; Over 3,000 Youth Pledge Support to Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the Presence of Dr. Pramod Sawant, Dr. Virendra Kumar and Shri Subhash Phal Desai
In a resounding show of unity and determination, more than 3,000 citizens—primarily youth—gathered at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Goa University, Bambolim, today for a landmark event under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). Organized by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, the rally marked a significant milestone in the campaign’s sixth year and became one of the largest anti-drug mobilizations in Goa’s history.
Thousands more participated virtually through online platforms, amplifying the call for a drug-free India and reinforcing the movement as a true people’s campaign (Jan Andolan).
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including:
In his address, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized Goa’s commitment to realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 ahead of schedule—aiming for a fully developed Viksit Goa by 2037. He declared that achieving a Nasha Mukt Goa (drug-free Goa) is a core priority in this roadmap and reaffirmed his resolve to unite all stakeholders—including youth, spiritual organizations, NGOs, and community partners—in this collective effort.
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar praised the transformation of NMBA into a nationwide movement driven by citizens, youth, women, educational institutions, and spiritual organizations. He reiterated the Government’s firm dedication to eradicating substance abuse and fostering a healthier, more empowered India.
Key Highlights of the Event:
The rally saw enthusiastic involvement from school and college students, NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, My Bharat participants, youth club members, spiritual organization representatives, line departments, NGOs, police personnel, civil society groups, and the general public.
About Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Launched on August 15, 2020, by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, NMBA initially targeted 272 highly vulnerable districts and has since expanded to cover every district nationwide. The campaign emphasizes mass awareness, with focused outreach in higher educational institutions, university campuses, schools, and communities.
Major National Achievements (as reported):
Strategic partnerships with eight leading spiritual organizations—including The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, and University of Patanjali—have strengthened grassroots efforts. Digital engagement continues via official social media channels (X, Facebook, Instagram) and the dedicated NMBA website, featuring dashboards, e-pledge options, forums, and resources.
Recent national highlights include the 5th Anniversary celebration in Delhi (August 2025) and a grand event at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar (November 2025), which drew massive participation.
Today’s Goa event underscored NMBA’s growing momentum, mobilized community action, inspired youth leadership, and strengthened the national resolve for a Nasha Mukt Bharat.
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Government of Goa extend sincere gratitude to all participants, partners, and supporters. They invite every citizen—especially the youth—to join the movement by taking the online pledge at the NMBA website, raising awareness, and actively contributing to a healthier, addiction-free society.