Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary Launches Month-Long Campaign to Combat Drug Abuse

Addressing the launch event, Choudhary warned that the state’s future could be jeopardised if drug addiction among young people was not addressed effectively. He stressed the need to combine public awareness with stronger enforcement against the supply and consumption of narcotic substances.

The Chief Minister acknowledged former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s decision to introduce prohibition in Bihar in 2016, despite the potential loss of revenue to the state exchequer. He described the liquor ban as a significant initiative and said the government should continue working towards building a healthier society.

“Alcohol has been prohibited in Bihar for nearly 10 years. This was a significant initiative started by former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and I extend my special thanks to him for it. Now, we must carry it forward,” Choudhary said.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s goal of a ‘Nasha-Mukt Bharat’, Choudhary said Bihar would step up its efforts to tackle substance abuse. He also referred to the national target of eliminating drug abuse by 2029 and announced a special month-long campaign across the state.

Students, Self-Help Groups to Support Awareness Drive

Choudhary called for the involvement of students, Jeevika self-help groups and the Brahma Kumaris in spreading awareness about the dangers of drug consumption.

He urged the organisation of street plays in villages and encouraged Jeevika Didis to lead awareness initiatives at the panchayat level. The campaign, he said, should focus particularly on discouraging young people from using addictive substances.

The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the rising quantities of narcotic substances seized by authorities, highlighting the need for stronger action against drugs beyond alcohol.

Drug Seizures Highlight Enforcement Challenges

Citing figures during the event, Choudhary said seizures of charas increased from 282 kg in 2024 to 400 kg in 2025.

Heroin seizures rose from 42 kg in 2024 to approximately 62–65 kg in 2025, while opium seizures increased from 10 kg to 77 kg during the same period.

He said enforcement efforts against substances such as charas and smack needed to be intensified, adding that sustained policing and public awareness would both be essential to addressing the problem.

Choudhary identified eight districts for particular attention and specifically named Patna, Samastipur, Vaishali and Ara as areas where drug consumption was a growing concern.

The Chief Minister urged government departments, community organisations and citizens to work together to prevent substance abuse. He said the campaign would prioritise protecting the younger generation and advancing the goal of a drug-free Bihar.