Governor Calls for Collective Action to Combat Substance Abuse in Youth

Itanagar, India Jul 31, 2026 ALN: ITANAGAR, 30 Jul: Governor KT Parnaik called upon educational institutions, families, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, and civil society to work together in building “nasha mukt yuva,” emphasising that the fight against substance abuse must begin with individuals and evolve into a nationwide people’s movement.

Substance abuse has become a critical issue across the globe, with youth being particularly vulnerable. The impact of substance misuse extends beyond individual health; it has far-reaching consequences on families, communities, and society at large. The statement by Governor Parnaik comes in the wake of escalating concerns regarding the rising rates of drug addiction among the youth in India, a trend that has been exacerbated by various socio-economic factors, including unemployment, peer pressure, and the influence of social media.

Addressing a virtual conference on ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ with vice-chancellors of government and private universities, senior officers of Health, Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Social Justice & Empowerment and Tribal Affairs Departments, deputy commissioners, superintendents of police and Red Cross volunteers, organised by the Lok Bhavan here in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre, the governor said that substance abuse threatens not only individual health but also educational attainment, productivity, social harmony, and national development.

The consequences of substance abuse are multifaceted. For young people, addiction can lead to poor academic performance, increased dropout rates, and a higher likelihood of engaging in criminal activities. The governor highlighted that the social fabric of communities can be irreparably damaged as families struggle to cope with the ramifications of addiction. The call for a collective effort underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses both prevention and rehabilitation.

He stated that “a nasha mukt Bharat is not merely about the absence of drugs, but about promoting healthy choices, informed decisions, supportive families and resilient communities.” This statement points to the necessity of fostering an environment where healthy lifestyles are encouraged, and young individuals are equipped with the knowledge and resources to make informed choices regarding substance use.

“When drugs take control of the mind, one loses control over life itself, which destroys not only the person but also his family,” he said. This poignant assertion encapsulates the devastating impact of addiction, not just on the individual, but also on their loved ones and the broader community. The emotional and psychological toll of substance abuse can lead to familial breakdowns, increased healthcare costs, and a loss of productivity in the workforce.

The governor stated that the youth of the nation are its greatest strength and most valuable asset. In light of this, he emphasised the importance of a comprehensive approach to combating substance abuse, focusing on prevention and awareness, leveraging technology for effective monitoring and outreach, and providing skill development opportunities to recovered individuals to help them reintegrate into society and lead productive, dignified lives. This holistic approach recognizes that combating substance abuse is not solely the responsibility of healthcare providers or law enforcement but requires a united front from all sectors of society.

Parnaik advocated a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, and proposed five key interventions: establishing anti-drug cells and counselling mechanisms in every university to create drug-free campuses; setting up district-level anti-drug task forces and early warning systems; promoting sports and youth engagement as a powerful anti-drug movement; strengthening community-based counselling, rehabilitation and de-addiction networks; and launching a ‘nasha mukt tribal youth movement’ through local languages, community participation and village-level volunteers. These proposed interventions reflect a strategic framework aimed at addressing the problem from multiple angles, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in the fight against substance abuse.

The emphasis on sports and youth engagement is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the potential of physical activity and community involvement in fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among young people. Engaging youth in sports can serve as a powerful deterrent against drug use, providing alternative avenues for social interaction and personal development.

The governor emphasised that every young life lost to addiction represents a loss of national potential. He urged students, particularly future doctors, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists and public health professionals, to become ambassadors of awareness and lead efforts in prevention, treatment, research and evidence-based policymaking. This call to action for the next generation of healthcare professionals underscores the critical role that education and training play in addressing public health crises, including substance abuse.

Calling for “greater research in addiction medicine, mental health and behavioural sciences,” Parnaik stressed that evidence must guide action and research must inform policy. This statement reflects a growing recognition of the need for a robust evidence base to inform public health interventions and policy decisions. By prioritizing research, stakeholders can better understand the complexities of addiction and develop targeted strategies to mitigate its impact.

Reiterating his commitment to drug-free educational institutions as the chief rector of Rajiv Gandhi University and chancellor of University, the governor said that “every campus must become a centre of awareness, every district a hub of prevention, every sports field a platform of hope, and every village a fortress against substance abuse.” This vision for educational institutions as proactive participants in the fight against substance abuse highlights the potential for campuses to serve as models for community engagement and public health advocacy.

He called upon all stakeholders to transform Nasha Mukt Bharat into a true jan andolan and contribute towards a healthier, stronger and Viksit Bharat by 2047. The emphasis on a people’s movement reflects a growing recognition that addressing substance abuse requires a cultural shift, where communities take ownership of the issue and work collaboratively towards sustainable solutions. As India approaches its centenary of independence, the call for a drug-free society aligns with broader national goals of development and well-being, underscoring the importance of investing in the health and future of the nation’s youth.