Meenakshi College of Yoga Science and Therapy (MCYST), MAHER, organized the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) – Awareness and Pledge-taking Programme on 21 January 2025 with the aim of promoting a drug-free lifestyle and strengthening awareness on substance abuse among the academic community. The programme was conducted as part of the national initiative to empower youth and educational institutions in combating drug and alcohol abuse.
The event commenced with a prayer, setting a reflective and purposeful tone for the programme. This was followed by an address by Prof. Dr. V. Subbulakshmi, Principal, MCYST, who highlighted the serious health, social, and academic consequences of substance abuse. In her address, she emphasized the critical role of youth in building a responsible, healthy, and substance-free society, and encouraged students to become ambassadors of positive change within their communities.
The NMBA pledge was administered in English, during which students, research scholars, and faculty members collectively reaffirmed their commitment to abstain from drugs and alcohol. An awareness and motivational session was then delivered by Dr. A. Annadurai, who spoke on the topic “Substance Abuse: Health Risks, Social Consequences, and the Path to a Substance-Free Lifestyle.” His session focused on preventive strategies, the importance of informed choices, and the adoption of healthy habits as essential steps toward long-term well-being.
The programme witnessed active participation from students, research scholars, and faculty members, who engaged attentively in the discussions and reflected on their responsibility towards themselves and society. The event concluded with a strong collective resolve to support the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and to actively spread awareness on the ill effects of substance abuse. The programme served as a meaningful platform to reinforce values of self-discipline, social responsibility, and national commitment among the participants.
