The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has renewed its partnership with The Art of Living, a non-profit spiritual and educational organization, to strengthen efforts against substance abuse across India. The extended Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in New Delhi in the presence of Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar. This collaboration operates under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the government’s national programme to create a drug-free India.
What the renewed partnership includes
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and The Art of Living will work together to prevent substance abuse through a combined government and society-wide approach. The partnership aims to build public awareness, prevent drug use before it begins, and mobilize communities to take action against the problem.
The ministry recognises that spiritual and value-based organizations have strong grassroots networks that can reach people effectively. Through such networks, these organizations help promote living based on strong personal values, strengthen families against substance abuse risk, reduce shame around addiction, and encourage people struggling with drug use to seek help and treatment.
The Art of Living is one of 12 spiritual organizations that the ministry has signed similar agreements with. The others include Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, University of Patanjali, Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, Hare Krishna Movement, Adhyatm Vigyan Satsang Kendra and Chinmaya Mission.
What this means for you
If you or your family members are concerned about substance abuse, these organizations’ expanded involvement may mean more accessible local resources and counselling in your area. Community programmes run through religious and spiritual networks are likely to increase, offering both prevention activities and information about treatment options. The focus on reducing stigma may make it easier for people affected by addiction to speak openly and seek support without fear of social judgment.