UP Excise Minister Launches ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ from the City of Kashi
Varanasi: To mark World No Tobacco Day, the Department of Prohibition, Government of Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with the Sociology Department of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, Varanasi, organized a state-level seminar and awareness programmes on May 31, 2025, at the Gandhi Adhyayan Peeth Auditorium. The events aimed to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and narcotic substances under the ongoing ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ (Addiction-Free India Campaign).
The event was graced by Nitin Agarwal, Minister for Excise and Prohibition, Uttar Pradesh, as the chief guest. The programme began with the inauguration and inspection of an anti-addiction exhibition by the Hon’ble Minister and other dignitaries. This was followed by a floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue and the ceremonial lamp lighting, officially inaugurating the seminar.
R.L. Rajvanshi, State Prohibition Officer, Uttar Pradesh, delivered the introductory address, highlighting the department’s achievements and giving an overview of the campaign’s objectives.
During his keynote address, Nitin Agarwal expressed concern over the rising trend of tobacco and drug use among the youth. He emphasized the importance of a collective effort in combating substance abuse, stating, “In addition to government efforts, every citizen must play a vital role in furthering the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ and the movement ‘Ek Yuddh Nashe Ke Virudh’ (A War Against Addiction).” The Minister chose Varanasi—the spiritual heart of India and a symbol of wisdom—as the launch site for this renewed campaign and encouraged people to align their efforts with the national vision of a drug-free India by 2047.
He also directed the department to work in collaboration with educational institutions, religious leaders, and spiritual influencers to develop a strategic plan in partnership with Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith.
Prof. Anand Kumar Tyagi, Vice-Chancellor of the university, elaborated on the adverse effects of substance abuse and discussed preventive strategies. Prof. Amita Singh, Head of the Sociology Department, shared sociological insights into the causes and solutions of drug abuse. Dr. C.P. Mall, Director of the Mental Health Hospital, Varanasi, discussed the psychosocial aspects of addiction and preventive measures.
Prominent media personality and author Arvind Kumar Chaturvedi, Editor of News India, spoke on the critical role of media in raising awareness and combating the menace of addiction.
The event concluded with an award ceremony where the Minister and dignitaries felicitated the winners of various competitions organized by the Prohibition Department. Nirmalika Singh, Regional Prohibition and Social Upliftment Officer, Varanasi, extended her gratitude to all participants and urged the audience to stay away from intoxicants and support the campaign wholeheartedly.
