The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) on 15th August 2020 to combat drug demand in the country. Recognising the urgent need for collective action, the Ministry coordinates various initiatives including prevention, assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, aftercare, public information dissemination, and community awareness.

As drug addiction in India has long been a silent crisis impacting individuals, families and communities across both urban and rural landscapes, the NMBA initially targeted 272 vulnerable districts and expanded nationwide reaching over 29.24 crore individuals, including more than 11.15 crore youth and 7.89 crore women, while undertaking outreach activities in lakhs of educational institutions across the country.

Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar stated the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan is a prime nation-building initiative focusing on healthy and disciplined youth. NMBA has coordinated efforts of regulatory agencies including the Narcotics Bureau, state and district governments, police, NGOs, and hospitals.

Minister of State Shri Ramdas Athawale described NMBA as a flagship campaign that employs evidence-based approaches towards substance abuse, focusing on engaging youth and converging stakeholder activities for a unified effort.

Minister Shri B. L. Verma emphasized the national initiative's active involvement of youth, women, and communities, particularly in higher education institutions and youth clubs to spread awareness about substance abuse.

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