Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Declaring that Goa will not be allowed to turn into a refuge for drug networks, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday launched the nationwide Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in the State, promising stricter enforcement against peddlers alongside sustained awareness efforts to steer youth away from substance abuse.
The campaign was inaugurated in the presence of Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar and Goa Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai.
Raising the slogan “Nasha Mukt Bharat, Khushhaal Bharat,” the Chief Minister said the national initiative seeks to build a drug-free society and protect the country’s youth from addiction.
“This campaign has been launched across the country with the goal of making India drug-free by 2047, in line with the vision of a Viksit Bharat. In Goa, we are working towards a Viksit Goa by 2037, and as part of that commitment, we are implementing this campaign in the State,” Sawant said.
He asserted that enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify action against narcotics networks. “We will seize drugs wherever they are found in Goa. A sustained crackdown on peddlers and dealers is underway, and arrests are being made regularly,” he stated, adding that safeguarding the younger generation remains a top priority.
Emphasising a dual strategy of enforcement and rehabilitation, Sawant said the government would expand awareness programmes across communities, schools and institutions while also supporting those seeking recovery.
“We stand united in saying no to drugs, keeping our communities safe, and guiding our youth towards sports, education and opportunity. No one should assume that Goa is a safe haven for drugs. Our crackdown will continue,” the Chief Minister affirmed.
Officials said the campaign will involve coordinated efforts between law enforcement, social welfare departments, educational institutions and community organisations to curb substance abuse and promote preventive outreach across the State.
