Daijiworld Media Network - Varanasi

Varanasi, Jul 19: Union youth affairs minister Mansukh Mandaviya delivered a stark warning on Saturday — India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2047 is under threat unless the growing crisis of youth addiction is tackled head-on.

Speaking at the Youth Spiritual Summit at Varanasi’s Rudraksh Convention Centre, Mandaviya addressed over 600 young representatives from 122 spiritual and cultural organisations gathered for the two-day national meet themed “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat” (Addiction-Free Youth for a Developed India).

“The future of India rests on its young shoulders — 65% of our population is under 35. But drugs, gadgets, and digital distractions are weakening that foundation,” said Mandaviya. “Addiction is silently hijacking the potential of our youth at a critical time in their lives. This is not just a personal crisis — it’s a national emergency.”

Mandaviya urged spiritual leaders, influencers, and citizens alike to transform the anti-addiction message into a mass movement, not just a moment.

“Every citizen must inspire five others to join the fight against drugs. We cannot afford to let this be a one-off effort. This has to be a wave,” he said, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat” shared during his Red Fort address in 2022 — a 25-year roadmap guided by the ‘Panch Pran’ (Five Pledges).

The summit, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, is expected to culminate with the unveiling of the ‘Kashi Declaration’ on July 20. This document will outline a national action plan co-created by youth leaders and spiritual thinkers to tackle substance abuse and promote holistic wellness.

Also addressing the summit, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar added a geopolitical perspective:

“Substance abuse isn’t just a domestic issue — there are signs of foreign elements attempting to destabilise India’s youth from within. But our young citizens have the strength to resist and rebuild. We must channel their energy into nation-building.”

Kumar emphasized the role of mental and physical well-being in this battle.

“Yoga, mindfulness, and community support are essential tools. Strengthening the body and mind is our first defense against addiction,” he said.

The summit comes at a time when India’s youth face increasing exposure to drugs, digital dependence, and mental health issues — making the call for collective action all the more urgent.