Goa is set to host a massive youth mobilisation against drug abuse on February 27, 2026, as the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) marks a significant milestone in its sixth year. The grand public event will be organised at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Bambolim, bringing together thousands of citizens in a united stand against substance abuse.
Top Dignitaries to Grace the Occasion
The event will be attended by Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant and Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar. Senior officials from the state government, social welfare departments, and other dignitaries are also scheduled to participate.
The presence of national and state leaders underscores the government’s continued commitment to strengthening the fight against drug abuse through coordinated action and public awareness.
Mass Oath and Cultural Programmes
A key highlight of the NMBA Youth Rally will be the administration of a mass anti-drug pledge. Participants will take the oath both physically at the venue and digitally through online platforms, reinforcing a collective commitment towards a drug-free India.
The programme will also feature cultural performances, felicitation of active volunteers and partners, and the sharing of success stories from across the country. Organisers aim to inspire young people by showcasing real-life examples of transformation and community engagement.
Students from schools and colleges, youth groups, parents, Self Help Groups, NGOs, spiritual organisations, police personnel, and civil society members are expected to participate in large numbers.
Journey of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
Launched on August 15, 2020, by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, NMBA initially covered 272 vulnerable districts. The campaign has since expanded to all districts across the country, significantly widening its reach and impact.
The Abhiyaan focuses on awareness generation in higher educational institutions, university campuses, schools, and at the community level. It promotes prevention, counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation efforts while encouraging citizen participation.
According to official data available on the Ministry’s portal and PIB releases, more than 25.93 crore people have been sensitised on substance abuse issues. The campaign has reached over 9.35 crore youth and more than 6.38 crore women, with participation from over 16 lakh educational institutions nationwide.
For detailed updates, citizens can refer to the official portal of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (https://socialjustice.gov.in) and the Press Information Bureau (https://pib.gov.in).
Strategic Spiritual Partnerships
To expand its outreach, the Department has signed Memorandums of Understanding with eight major spiritual organisations. These collaborations aim to amplify awareness campaigns and encourage behavioural change through community engagement and value-based guidance.
The involvement of spiritual and social organisations has strengthened grassroots outreach and enhanced the credibility of the campaign in diverse communities.
Building Momentum Through National Events
The Goa rally follows a series of major national events under NMBA. The fifth anniversary celebration held in Delhi in August 2025 witnessed strong youth participation, while a grand national event in Amritsar in November 2025 drew significant nationwide engagement.
The upcoming Goa programme aims to further strengthen community mobilisation, highlight achievements, and encourage youth to take leadership in building a drug-free society.
By bringing together government authorities, educational institutions, civil society groups, and citizens, the NMBA Youth Rally in Goa seeks to reinforce the collective resolve towards a Nasha Mukt Bharat.
