The Government recently organized a three-day 'Youth Spiritual Summit' in Varanasi from 18th to 20th July 2025. The Summit, themed "Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat", brought together delegates from the youth wings of more than 120 spiritual organisations and various domain experts, Ministries and other organisations to develop a comprehensive, youth-led national strategy for a drug-free India. The deliberations culminated in the release of the Kashi Sankalp, a consensus-based action agenda towards Nasha Mukt Bharat.

Approximately 600 youth delegates participated in the Summit, representing youth wings of various spiritual organisations from across the country. Delegates were typically in the age group of 25–40 years. The Ministry consulted organisations affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and other relevant bodies. Based on their interest and willingness to participate, formal invitations were extended to spiritual organisations from across India.

The Government is fully aware that substance abuse constitutes one of the most serious threats to the well-being and potential of Indian youth, and consequently, to the country’s development trajectory. List of thematic sessions and activities related to drug addiction, conducted during the event, are as follows:

Session 1: Understanding Addiction: Nature, Types, Demographics of Youth Addiction Victims

Session 2: Decoding the Nexus: Peddler Networks, Access, International Influence

Session 3: Effective Campaigning and Outreach

Session 4: Vision 2047 – Roadmap and Commitment & signing of the Kashi Sankalp Public Program; a Nukkad Natak highlighting the effects of drug use and a theme-based cultural performance by a team from the Ministry of Culture was also staged. This event was attended by eminent personalities from the region as well as local youth.

The sessions were led by domain experts from the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, and Ministry of Home Affairs, present and past Members of Parliament active in the field of drug de-addiction and other experts in the field.

The Kashi Sankalp adopted during the Youth Spiritual Summit in Varanasi outlines a collaborative approach to tackling substance abuse through youth-led public campaigns, institutional outreach, and multi-stakeholder coordination. It emphasizes the cultural and constitutional imperative of a drug-free society. The declaration details roles for spiritual bodies, educational institutions, and Government ministries in prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness. It also includes mechanisms for Joint Working Groups, public reporting, and structured action planning.

This information was given by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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Rini Choudhury

(Release ID: 2153612)