Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar participated in the centenary celebration of Akhil Vishwa Gayatri Parivar at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. The event commemorated three milestones: the 100th birth anniversary of Param Vandaneya Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma Ji, 100 years of the manifestation of the Akhand Deepak, and 100 years of the penance and spiritual practice of Param Pujya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya Ji.
The Minister highlighted the organization's significant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free India Campaign), implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The Gayatri Parivar's efforts in spreading spiritual awareness, education, and awareness about the harmful effects of substance use have helped strengthen the national movement against drug abuse. These efforts reinforce Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of building a "Vyasanmukt Bharat, Sanskaryukt Bharat" (a drug-free India rooted in strong values).
Dr Virendra Kumar noted that crores of people have joined the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan across the country since its nationwide launch in 2020 following the Prime Minister's call for public participation. The collective resolve taken by participants to overcome substance addiction during the centenary commemoration was acknowledged as a significant contribution to the campaign. The Ministry reiterated that active participation of spiritual organizations, educational institutions, civil society, and citizens is essential to achieving the goal of a drug-free India.