Addressing a public gathering in Ahmedabad following the inauguration of key infrastructure initiatives, Union Home Minister Amit Shah outlined a comprehensive national roadmap aimed at eradicating drug abuse from the country. Highlighting the critical need for civic cooperation, the Home Minister emphasized that government measures alone cannot eliminate the drug menace without active community participation. During the event, which marked the launch of development projects worth Rs 1,024 crore, he called upon citizens across the nation to support enforcement agencies by reporting any illicit drug-related activities in their local areas.
Phased Deadlines for Gujarat and National Drug Elimination
Setting clear timeframes for achieving a drug-free society, Amit Shah announced that the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set December 31, 2029, as the final target date to make India completely drug-free. However, he stressed that Gujarat must lead by example and accomplish this objective ahead of the national timeline. The Home Minister called upon the state administration and local authorities to work relentlessly so that Gujarat achieves the drug-free milestone by December 31, 2028, a full year prior to the national deadline.
Safeguarding Youth and Protecting Future Generations
Underscoring the destructive impact of narcotics, the Home Minister labeled drug addiction as one of the most severe threats currently facing India's youth. He pointed out that substance abuse not only jeopardizes individual futures but also inflicts long-term harm on subsequent generations and national progress. Describing the country's youth as its greatest asset, Shah emphasized that protecting them from narcotics is a shared duty of society as a whole, rather than an isolated task for law enforcement agencies alone.
Community Reporting via Helplines to Aid Law Enforcement
To dismantle illicit drug distribution networks effectively, Amit Shah urged citizens to actively report any instances of drug sales or consumption to official helplines. Prompt information shared by the public will enable law enforcement agencies to take timely and decisive action against offenders. Reinforcing that public vigilance is crucial to the campaign's success, the Home Minister reiterated that a drug-free India can only be realized through joint efforts between the government, enforcement authorities, and vigilant citizens.
