Kashi Declaration 2025
| Aspect | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Adopted at | Youth Spiritual Summit, Varanasi (under MY Bharat framework) |
| Goal | 5-year roadmap for a youth-led "De-Addiction Movement" |
| Key Approach | Multi-faceted strategy: Public health + Societal reform + Spiritual-cultural integration |
| Institutional Mechanisms | - Joint National Committee (multi-ministerial) - Annual progress reporting - National portal for victim support |
Mera Yuva (MY) Bharat Framework
- Nature: Autonomous tech-driven body for youth development (est. by GoI).
- Role: Facilitate youth-led initiatives; platform for skill development & social campaigns.
- Link to Kashi Declaration: Institutional anchor for anti-drug advocacy.
India’s Anti-Drug Ecosystem
Legal Framework
- NDPS Act, 1985: Primary law for narcotics control (punitive measures).
- PIT-NDPS Act, 1988: Preventive detention for drug traffickers.
Policy Initiatives
- National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (2018-25): Focus on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation.
- Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (2020): Awareness in 272 districts; targets youth/students.
Statistical Insight (National Survey 2019)
- Alcohol: 14.6% prevalence (age 10-75) → Highest in Tripura (35+%), lowest in Gujarat.
- Other Substances: Cannabis (2.8%), Opioids (2.1%) – Heroin most common.
- Vulnerable Groups: Adolescents, daily wage workers, transport sector.
Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Way Forward |
|---|---|
| Poor Rehabilitation Infrastructure | Upgrade de-addiction centers under National Health Mission |
| Dark Net Drug Markets | Strengthen cyber policing (NCB’s Cyber Cell) |
| Stigma Against Victims | Community awareness via NSS/NYKS volunteers |
Current Affairs Link (2025)
- Global Context: Aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.5 (strengthen addiction prevention).
- Spiritual Angle: Leverages Varanasi’s symbolism (PM’s constituency) for national messaging.
- Tech Integration: AI chatbots for anonymous counseling (MY Bharat portal).