Patna: Chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Sunday said an addiction-free young generation was essential to building a “Viksit Bharat” and a “Samriddh Bihar”, and announced that the Bihar govt would sign a memorandum of understanding with Brahmakumaris to expand public participation in the state’s anti-addiction drive.The CM was speaking through video conferencing from Bihar Lok Bhavan during the inauguration of the “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp” campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The programme was also addressed by Modi and Bihar governor Syed Ata Hasnain. In Bihar, the campaign was formally launched by the governor and the chief minister by lighting a ceremonial lamp.Addressing the gathering, Choudhary praised the campaign initiated under Modi’s leadership and said a drug-free youth population was indispensable for achieving the national goal of a developed India and the state’s vision of prosperity. He said the Prime Minister had resolved to build a Viksit Bharat by 2047, and young people would play the most crucial role in realising that objective.“The youth can contribute to nation-building with their full potential only when they remain healthy, disciplined and free from addiction,” Choudhary said.He added that de-addiction efforts could not succeed through govt action or legal provisions alone. While the govt could enact laws, their effective implementation and social acceptance depended on people’s participation, he said, calling for a broad awareness campaign against addiction, particularly among the youth.Referring to Bihar’s prohibition policy, Choudhary said total prohibition was implemented in 2016 under the leadership of former chief minister Nitish Kumar, and its positive effects were now visible in society. He said prohibition had particularly benefited women and families and contributed to a healthier social environment.Choudhary also lauded Brahmakumaris for its work in de-addiction and said its cooperation with Bihar should be strengthened. He said the organisation was launching a de-addiction campaign after signing an MoU with the Govt of India and Bihar sought a similar pact for villages, cities and campuses.
