A special assembly titled “Nasha-Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat” was held on Sunday at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi, with thousands of young men and women from Delhi and neighbouring regions attending the event.

The programme commenced at 10:00 a.m. with the auspicious dhun and prayers. Thereafter, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the youth virtually, inspiring them to embrace an addiction-free way of life. Union Minister of Tourism and Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was also present on the occasion.

This special assembly was simultaneously organised at all BAPS centres across the country.

Prior to the Prime Minister’s address, Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami, a senior sadhu of BAPS, inspired the youth, saying:

“Bhagwan Swaminarayan has commanded us to live a life free from addictions. Only one who is free from addictions can become a true Satsangi.”

He further said that since Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is inspiring the youth for this noble campaign, everyone should come forward with enthusiasm and devotion to support this initiative.

Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Shekhawat praised the youth activities being carried out by BAPS and encouraged the young participants toward creative work. The Hon'ble Prime Minister addressed the youth online, highlighting the role of young people in realizing the dream of a Developed India (Viksit Bharat). The Prime Minister inspired everyone by saying that youth should come forward in this campaign for a de-addicted India.

It may be noted that youth, MY Bharat volunteers, NSS volunteers, and students from schools, colleges, and other educational institutions, along with more than 125 spiritual institutions, participated virtually in this program from 10,000 locations across the country.

Notably, since the time of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, more than 3,000 sants and Paramhansas travelled from village to village, inspiring people to lead addiction-free lives. Continuing this mission of de-addiction and public welfare, His Divine Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired more than five million people during his lifetime to give up addictions and embrace a pure and virtuous life. Those inspired included farmers, members of tribal communities, leading businessmen and public leaders.