Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary Says Bihar Is Changing Due to Prohibition; A Drug-Free Society Is the Foundation of a Developed India and a Prosperous Bihar
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described the state's prohibition policy as a major driver of social transformation, saying that it is steadily changing the face of Bihar. He stated that people in the state are now participating more actively in religious activities, offering prayers more frequently, and visiting major pilgrimage destinations such as Deoghar, Varanasi, and Kushinagar.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the "Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat – Sankalp Abhiyan" at Lok Bhavan Mandapam in Patna on Sunday, the Chief Minister said that a drug-free society is essential for realizing the vision of a Developed India and a Prosperous Bihar. He praised the campaign's objective of helping 10 crore (100 million) people become free from addiction, calling it a significant step toward social awareness and reform.
Prohibition Has Brought Positive Social Change
The Chief Minister said that the prohibition law introduced in 2016 was aimed not merely at banning the sale of alcohol but at protecting families and creating a healthier society.
According to him, several positive social changes have been observed over the years. He said that many families that once suffered from alcohol-related domestic disputes, financial hardship, and violence are now experiencing improved conditions.
He also stated that prohibition has had a positive impact on women's safety, children's education, and the overall economic well-being of families.
Increase in Religious Pilgrimages
The Chief Minister noted that more people from Bihar are now undertaking religious pilgrimages than before.
He mentioned that visits to prominent pilgrimage centers such as Deoghar, Varanasi, and Kushinagar have increased, describing this trend as a reflection of growing faith, cultural values, and positive social transformation.
He also remarked that the changing lifestyle of the people demonstrates the broader impact of the prohibition policy.
Drug-Free Society Essential for Development
During his address, Samrat Choudhary emphasized that the dream of a Developed India and a Prosperous Bihar can only be achieved if society becomes completely free from addiction.
He urged young people to stay away from drugs and intoxicants, saying that the future of both the nation and the state depends on an educated, healthy, and responsible youth population.
Appreciation for the Campaign
The Chief Minister appreciated the "Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat – Sankalp Abhiyan," stating that a campaign aimed at freeing 100 million people from addiction is a remarkable initiative.
He said such efforts should evolve into a nationwide social movement with active participation from every citizen rather than remaining limited to government programs.
A Bold Decision Taken in 2016
The Chief Minister said that the then Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took the courageous decision to implement prohibition in 2016, despite the state's financial challenges at the time.
He explained that although the government anticipated a loss of revenue, it chose to prioritize social welfare over financial gains, calling the decision difficult but necessary for the long-term benefit of society.
Social Welfare Given Priority
According to the Chief Minister, the government's objective is not limited to economic development but also includes social progress.
He said that a healthy, safe, and addiction-free society creates a stronger foundation for improvements in education, healthcare, employment, and investment.
Special Appeal to Youth
Samrat Choudhary urged young people not only to avoid addiction themselves but also to spread awareness among others.
He encouraged students, youth organizations, and educational institutions to actively participate in anti-addiction campaigns and help build a healthier society.
Greater Focus on Public Awareness
The Chief Minister observed that the fight against addiction cannot be won solely through legal measures.
He stressed the need for continuous public awareness campaigns involving schools, colleges, social organizations, voluntary groups, and religious institutions to strengthen the movement against substance abuse.
Women Play a Vital Role
The Chief Minister highlighted the important role of women in making society free from addiction.
He said women have been at the forefront of supporting the prohibition movement since its implementation and will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring its success.
Impact of Addiction on Society
Speakers at the event emphasized that substance abuse adversely affects individuals, families, and society as a whole.
They pointed out that addiction can contribute to crime, road accidents, domestic violence, and financial instability, making a drug-free society an urgent necessity.
Collective Effort Needed for a Developed Bihar
The Chief Minister concluded that the vision of a Developed Bihar cannot be achieved through government initiatives alone.
He called upon citizens, youth, teachers, parents, social organizations, and the administration to work together in building an addiction-free society. According to him, lasting social transformation is possible only when every section of society actively participates in this mission.
Speaking at the inauguration of the "Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat – Sankalp Abhiyan" in Patna, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described prohibition as a significant instrument of social reform in Bihar. He said that the policy, introduced in 2016, has encouraged healthier lifestyles and positive social change across the state. The Chief Minister urged young people to stay away from addiction, spread awareness, and contribute actively toward building a Developed India and a Prosperous Bihar. He reiterated that a drug-free society is the strongest foundation for the state's and the nation's future.
