Vice‑President C P Radhakrishnan addressed the 11th annual Sant Eshwer Samman ceremony in New Delhi on Friday, warning that drug abuse is a global problem and urging young people to pledge abstinence. He highlighted the importance of the Nasha Mukt Yuva initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Nasha Mukt Bharat 2029 roadmap announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as essential steps toward a disciplined society.
Radhakrishnan cited the September SCO Summit in Kyrgyzstan, where world leaders adopted programmes to curb drug addiction and synthetic drug proliferation through 2030. He emphasized that India’s efforts should align with this global movement to create a drug‑free society worldwide.
The vice‑president noted that more than 300,000 students from universities he has visited have taken oaths to reject drugs. He said these students will not only avoid substance use themselves but also spread awareness among friends, family and their communities.
He described the Sant Eshwer Samman, established by a prominent NGO in 2015, as a recognition of selfless service and compassion. Awardees this year have contributed to rural development, tribal welfare, education, rehabilitation, skill development, cultural activities and the armed forces, illustrating the spirit of seva that unites them.
Radhakrishnan concluded by urging youth to live for themselves and others, stressing that progress toward Viksit Bharat 2047 must be measured by dignity, opportunity and hope for every citizen. He also announced the Sant Eshwer Special Samman 2026 for Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who helped prevent an alleged crash attempt on a flydubai flight in September.
