While public discussions and formal seminar stages on the dangers of substance abuse are frequent, an unconventional grassroots initiative on the roads of Haryana is taking a distinct approach. A dedicated procession centered around a vehicle transformed into a chariot, inscribed with inspirational verses and strong anti-drug messages, is moving through towns and rural settlements. Leading this effort is 77-year-old Swami Nareshanand Sainacharya, who is personally reaching out to young people across localities to converse directly with them and administer a pledge to renounce narcotics and intoxication entirely.
The Journey of Seva Sankalp Nasha Mukti Abhiyan from Panipat to Ambala
Organized under the auspices of the Sanatan Sanskriti Jagriti Trust, the 'Seva Sankalp-Nasha Mukti Abhiyan Yatra' has advanced into Ambala after setting off from Panipat. Accompanying the ascetic is a group of associates working to alert communities about the severe consequences of narcotic consumption. Swami Nareshanand pointed out that the fallout from drug dependency is never confined to an isolated person; rather, an entire household suffers the emotional and financial strain. Consequently, he emphasizes the necessity of cautioning youth early on so they fully recognize the hazards before ever falling into addiction.
Core Purpose and Logistical Setup of the Campaign
Addressing the motivation behind the extensive tour, Swami Nareshanand Sainacharya stated that undertaking such an intense journey at the age of 77 serves no personal interest, but is driven entirely by a vow to safeguard young generations from substance dependency. The yatra initiated in Panipat is mapped to traverse a total distance exceeding 1,500 kilometers. Throughout the transit across diverse towns and countryside settlements, the team makes direct contact with residents, prioritizing adolescents and young adults.
The traveling group consists of about 10 to 12 members accompanied by four to five vehicles. Among these, one vehicle has been deliberately designed as a chariot bearing bold anti-drug inscriptions and verses so that motorists and pedestrians can easily read the warnings while moving along the highway. At each planned stop, Swami Nareshanand engages directly with young crowds and leads them through formal pledges to stay away from intoxicants.
Leaving the Ashram to Address Distress Among Families
Swami Nareshanand shared that numerous troubled families regularly visit his ashram seeking solace regarding their children's substance problems. The dominant anguish voiced by parents centers on sons who have become trapped in drug habits. Observing the pain of these distressed households firsthand convinced the spiritual leader that summoning youth to an ashram is inadequate. Instead, spiritual and social guides must step outside and meet young people in their own neighborhoods. That realization prompted the decision to embark on the road tour.
Route Encompassing Major Cities Toward Delhi
The campaign also seeks to reconnect youth with spiritual awareness and purposeful living. Swami Nareshanand maintains that directing youthful vigor toward positive endeavors will secure a healthier tomorrow for both families and wider society. The yatra originally commenced in Panipat after being flagged off by a representative of Cabinet Minister Manohar Lal.
Following its stop in Ambala, the entourage is scheduled to head to Chandigarh, where delegates plan to submit a formal memorandum to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and the Governor. Moving forward, the route will encompass Wagah Border, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bathinda, Patiala, Hisar, Kaithal, and Narnaul before arriving in the national capital, Delhi.
Demands for Federal Action Against Drug Smuggling at Jantar Mantar
Upon reaching Jantar Mantar in Delhi, a formal petition will be presented to the Government of India urging decisive, strict measures to eliminate narcotics trafficking and expand anti-drug rehabilitation across the country. Following the advocacy in Delhi, the march will return to Panipat for its final conclusion.
Swami Nareshanand Sainacharya reiterated that young people represent the primary strength of any nation, requiring collective societal intervention to protect them from substance abuse. The central principle of the yatra remains that awareness initiatives must not remain confined to indoor podiums, but must reach directly into the spaces where young citizens need positive guidance most.
