Tue Jan 13 20:24:41 UTC 2026: # India Confronts Substance Abuse Crisis Among Youth

The Story:
On January 13, 2026, Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan addressed a Delhi University event launching the ‘Nasha Mukt Parisar Abhiyaan’ mobile application, aimed at creating a drug-free campus. Describing substance abuse as a “serious social challenge,” he emphasized the importance of a healthy, drug-free, and purpose-driven youth for India’s development and national security. He also lauded U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to combat international drug networks.

The event saw participation from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, and Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh, along with senior faculty and students, all taking a pledge to ensure a drug-free campus. The Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute of Delhi University also launched national helpline services for quitting tobacco.

Key Points:

  • Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan launched a mobile application under the ‘Nasha Mukt Parisar Abhiyaan’ at Delhi University.
  • The V-P highlighted substance abuse as a threat to India’s demographic dividend and national security, citing links to narco-terrorism.
  • The V-P praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to combat international drug networks.
  • Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan warned against the dangers of drug addiction.
  • The Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute of Delhi University launched national helpline services for quitting tobacco.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Indian government views substance abuse among youth as a significant threat to national development and security.
  • The ‘Nasha Mukt Parisar Abhiyaan’ initiative signals a proactive approach to combating drug abuse within educational institutions.
  • The involvement of high-ranking officials underscores the seriousness with which the government is addressing this issue.
  • The public endorsement of controversial foreign policies to combat drug-related issue reflects the severity of the problem.

Impact Analysis:

The launch of the ‘Nasha Mukt Parisar Abhiyaan’ and the accompanying statements from government officials suggest a sustained, multi-pronged effort to tackle substance abuse in India. The focus on educational institutions indicates a long-term strategy to prevent drug use among young people and cultivate a healthier, more productive workforce. The helpline for tobacco cessation highlights an integrated approach to combating all forms of addiction. The explicit mention of narco-terrorism implies that this initiative might be connected to broader national security concerns, potentially leading to increased surveillance and enforcement measures.

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