Patna: Chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday inaugurated the “Nashamukt Bihar Abhiyan” at Adhiveshan Bhawan, launching a month-long statewide campaign by the prohibition, excise and registration department to promote a drug-free Bihar.The campaign will run from Oct 27 to Nov 26. At the event, Choudhary launched a WhatsApp chatbot and helpline and flagged off public awareness vehicles that will visit various districts over the next month. Officials said the vehicles will use audio-visual messages to inform people about the harmful effects of intoxication and the benefits of a drug-free life.Choudhary directed officials to conduct an extensive public awareness drive in urban areas and organise programmes in rural areas through street plays, ‘chaupals’ and panchayat-level activities. He said protecting young people from addiction was essential for the state’s future, warning that even talented students could destroy their future because of substance abuse. He urged that the maximum number of youths be linked with the campaign so the next generation could help build a strong, healthy and prosperous Bihar.The CM said strict action was needed not only for prohibition enforcement but also against drugs. Citing seizure data, he said 282 kg of charas was seized in Bihar in 2024, rising to 400 kg in 2025. Heroin seizures increased from 42 kg in 2024 to 65 kg in 2025, while 77 kg of opium was seized in 2025. He said these figures must be taken seriously and called for effective curbs on the supply and illegal trade of narcotic substances, along with special drives in affected districts.Choudhary administered an oath to those present at the venue and to officials and citizens from various districts who joined through video conferencing. Participants pledged not to consume narcotic substances, to encourage others to avoid addiction, to help stop illegal narcotics trade and to contribute to making Bihar drug-free.He inspected stalls set up by the department, Jeevika and Brahmakumaris. A short film on de-addiction awareness and action against illegal liquor trade was screened on this occasion.
