India Expands Nationwide Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan to Combat Substance Abuse
The Government of India has intensified its battle against substance abuse through the expansive Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), a nationwide campaign aimed at prevention and de-addiction. Initially launched on August 15, 2020, in 272 vulnerable districts, the initiative has now broadened its reach to encompass all districts across the country as of August 2023, with a particular focus on educational institutions, universities, and schools.
Shri B. L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, provided details in a written reply to inquiries from Rajya Sabha members Shri Kanad Purkayastha and Shri Babubhai Jesangbhai Desai. He revealed that the campaign has successfully reached and sensitized over 29.05 crore people nationwide, including more than 11.05 crore youth and nearly 7.81 crore women, through extensive awareness and outreach initiatives.
Supportive Infrastructure and Helpline
As part of the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), the Ministry has established a robust support structure for substance addiction recovery. This includes operational District De-Addiction Centres (DDACs), Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs), Outreach and Drop-In Centres (ODICs), Community-Based Peer-Led Intervention centres, and Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs). In total, the Ministry supports 145 DDACs, 344 IRCAs, 76 ODICs, 45 CPLI centres, and 155 ATFs. This extensive framework aims to integrate services at the district level, enhancing institutional care and access to rehabilitation.
An important component of the campaign is the National Toll-Free De-Addiction Helpline (14446), which provides essential services such as information, counseling, guidance, and referrals for individuals dealing with substance use issues and their families. To date, this helpline has received over 4.6 lakh calls, marking its significance in offering immediate support.
Engagement and Awareness Programs
The Ministry emphasizes sustained outreach and awareness programs in collaboration with State Governments and educational institutions. Activities include pledge campaigns, workshops, seminars, rallies, street plays, and various Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) endeavors aimed at educating students and youth on the dangers of substance abuse.
Strengthening grassroots advocacy, the Ministry has launched a nationwide network of Nasha Mukti Mitrs (NMMs) under the NMBA initiative, enlisting more than 1.17 lakh volunteers. These volunteers utilize the NMBA Mobile App to take the e-Pledge, access IEC materials, and document the awareness activities they initiate at the community level. This collaborative effort is a vital part of the nationwide campaign against the pervasive issue of substance abuse.
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