The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment held a ceremony on Seva Diwas at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in Delhi as part of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar lit a ceremonial lamp alongside individuals who have completed treatment for substance dependence, signalling government backing for their recovery and social reintegration.
What happened and who participated
Around 250 individuals in recovery, who received treatment through government-aided institutions run by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment in Delhi, the National Capital Region and nearby areas, took part in the ceremony. The act of lighting the lamp alongside the Minister, called the ‘Ashirvad Ka Diya’ initiative, was meant to represent hope and fresh beginnings for those rebuilding their lives after substance dependence.
Dr. Virendra Kumar said the government remains committed to four areas: preventing substance abuse, providing treatment, supporting rehabilitation, and helping people return to society with dignity. He stressed that recovery requires a combination of professional help, sustained support during rehabilitation, backing from families, and community involvement.
The Minister highlighted the need to remove stigma and create environments where people in recovery feel accepted and have real opportunities to lead productive lives. The ceremony was part of the broader Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, the government’s service and welfare initiative being carried out across the country on Seva Diwas.
What this means for you
If you or someone in your family is affected by substance dependence, the government message is that recovery is possible and treatment is available through supported institutions. The emphasis on removing stigma suggests official recognition that addiction is a health issue requiring professional intervention, not shame. Families and communities are being asked to support recovery as a shared responsibility rather than leaving it to individuals alone.