Spirituality Is A Powerful Tool In India's Anti-Drug Drive: Union Minister Mandaviya
Union sports minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday emphasised the role of spirituality in tackling the menace of drug addiction among youth, calling it a vital tool in shaping a 'Viksit Bharat" by 2047—a vision laid out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18 on the sidelines of the Yuva Spiritual Summit in Varanasi, Mandaviya said, 'Spiritual leaders hold a deep connect with society, especially with the youth. Their influence can be instrumental in guiding young minds away from addiction." He added that the government is planning to integrate spiritual organisations into its broader mission to build a drug-free India.
'This is just the beginning of a nationwide campaign. We aim to turn it into a robust people's movement with spiritual leaders leading from the front," the minister said, highlighting the significance of the spiritual capital, Varanasi, in anchoring the campaign.
Mandaviya acknowledged the challenges the youth face today, particularly the growing lure of narcotics. 'The youth are central to the PM's vision of a developed India. But they are also grappling with very real threats, like substance abuse. It is our responsibility to help them overcome it," he said.
Drug eradication has been a top policy priority for the Narendra Modi government, with the union home ministry launching sustained operations across the country to curb trafficking and distribution.
Mandaviya also urged 15 lakh schools across India to join the mission through health-focused initiatives. Under his leadership, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle campaign—launched in December 2024—has turned into a mass movement, with over 50,000 citizens participating weekly across thousands of locations.
The Yuva Spiritual Summit, held at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Varanasi, centred on the theme Drug-Free Youth for a Developed India. The event saw participation from over 600 young individuals representing around 122 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations from across the country.
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