Imphal | Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Sunday called upon the state’s youth to stay away from drugs and actively contribute to nation-building, asserting that a healthy and drug-free generation is vital to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The chief minister was speaking at the state-level launch of the “Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan” at Manipur University, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the nationwide anti-drug campaign from New Delhi. The event was organised by the NSS Cell of Manipur University in collaboration with the State NSS Cell under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

In his virtual address, Prime Minister Modi said the goal of building a developed India could only be realised through physically and mentally healthy youth who remain free from substance abuse. He urged young people across the country to actively participate in the movement against drugs.

Addressing the gathering in Imphal, Khemchand Singh said the country’s long-term development aspirations depended on a disciplined, healthy and drug-free younger generation. He appealed to the youth of Manipur to reject narcotics and play a constructive role in the progress of both the state and the nation.

Recalling a period when drug abuse was widespread, the chief minister said he had consciously stayed away from narcotic substances, allowing him to focus on public service. He encouraged young people to make similar life choices and become responsible citizens committed to society.

Expressing concern over the growing menace of substance abuse, Khemchand Singh said discussions with various non-governmental organisations had revealed the existence of organised networks targeting young people with narcotics. He assured that the state government would intensify its campaign against drug trafficking and continue taking stringent measures to protect the youth.

Highlighting Manipur’s strategic importance under India’s Act East Policy, the chief minister said the state is poised to emerge as the country’s gateway to Southeast Asia. He noted that the government is working to complete railway connectivity to Imphal by December 2028, a project expected to enhance trade and improve connectivity towards Moreh and neighbouring countries.

He, however, stressed that the benefits of these development initiatives could only be fully realised if the younger generation remained free from drug addiction. The chief minister also underscored the importance of peace for sustained development, appealing to all communities to work together to restore harmony in the state. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice against those responsible for violence while continuing efforts to rebuild trust among communities and facilitate free and secure movement across Manipur.

The programme concluded with participants taking a pledge for a drug-free India, reaffirming their commitment to stay away from intoxicants and spread awareness against substance abuse. The event was attended by Manipur University Vice-Chancellor Prof. R.K. Hemakumar Singh, faculty members, NSS volunteers, students and other dignitaries.