Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar stated on Monday that the growing problem of drug abuse cannot be addressed solely by the central and state governments, emphasizing the need for collective social and spiritual participation to effectively combat the menace.
Speaking during his visit to Meghalaya, the Minister said that while both the central and state governments are making sustained efforts, the solution to the drug problem requires wider community involvement, including social organizations and religious leaders.
"The issue of drugs cannot be resolved solely through government intervention. Along with the efforts of the Centre and State governments, social institutions and religious leaders must actively participate," Kumar said.
He informed that the government has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several spiritual and religious organizations to strengthen the nationwide anti-drug campaign. Through their extensive networks and branches across the country, these organizations are mobilizing communities and spreading awareness against substance abuse.
Among those contributing to the movement are Gayatri Parivar, Prajapita Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
"With their cooperation, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is progressing with considerable momentum," he said.
According to the Minister, more than 25 crore people have participated in awareness programmes under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Of these, over nine crore youth and more than six crore women have actively joined the movement.
He added that large-scale awareness events have recently been organized in cities such as Amritsar, Ludhiana, Mumbai and Goa, reflecting a growing nationwide awakening against drug abuse.
"There is increasing awareness across the country. Society is rising collectively. When everyone moves forward together, we will certainly make significant progress in overcoming this challenge," he said.
Responding briefly to a query regarding the shortage of doctors in certain states, the Minister noted that healthcare staffing issues are being addressed through coordination with concerned ministries, and assured that the Centre remains committed to supporting states in strengthening public health infrastructure.
The Minister reiterated that sustained coordination between governments, civil society, and community leaders is essential to achieving long-term success in the fight against drugs.