'Distance is Essential 2.0' Against Drugs Receives Broad Public Support, Message Reaches 9 Lakh People

Nationwide Anti-Drug Campaign Garnering Significant Public Backing

The special public awareness campaign, 'Nasha Se Door Hai Zaroori 2.0' (Distance is Essential from Drugs 2.0), spearheaded by the Madhya Pradesh Police with the aim of building a drug-free and healthy society, is receiving extensive public support across the state. As of July 19, 2026, the fifth day of the campaign which runs from July 15 to July 30, 2026, over 1300 awareness programs have been organized in various districts.

Through these initiatives, the crucial message of drug de-addiction has been conveyed to more than 9 lakh citizens. Directed by the Police Headquarters, the campaign specifically targets youth, students, women, villagers, laborers, drivers, athletes, and the general public, focusing on educating them about the ill effects of drug abuse and inspiring them to adopt a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Awareness Boosted Through Public Dialogue, Rallies, and Street Plays

A variety of creative activities are being organized across the state as part of the campaign. These include public awareness rallies, vehicle rallies, marathon races, village gatherings, public dialogue sessions, street plays, operation of awareness vans, distribution of posters and pamphlets, mass pledge ceremonies, sports competitions, and drawing and quiz contests.

Police officers and personnel are actively engaging with people at educational institutions, hostels, markets, bus stands, railway stations, industrial areas, slums, and other public spaces, informing them about the severe health, social, economic, and familial consequences of drug abuse. In many locations, students and citizens have taken collective pledges for a drug-free life, underscoring the campaign's commitment.

Chief Minister and Cabinet Lend Support to the Campaign

On the fifth day of the campaign, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and cabinet members extended their valuable support to this significant public awareness initiative during a cabinet meeting held at the historic Jagdishpur (Chaman Mahal) in Bhopal Dehat. The Chief Minister and ministers took a pledge to create a drug-free Madhya Pradesh as part of the 'Nasha Se Door Hai Zaroori 2.0' campaign.

They also participated in a signature campaign, sending a strong message to the state's residents to stay away from drugs, thereby further bolstering the campaign's momentum. This show of support from the highest levels of government is expected to significantly amplify the campaign's reach and impact.

Diverse and Creative Programs Organized in Districts

Various and locally tailored programs are being organized in different districts to ensure the campaign's success. In Alirajpur district, awareness drives were conducted through over 27 programs in tribal hostels and rural markets. Notably, de-addiction songs composed in the Nimadi dialect were used to connect with villagers, reflecting an engagement with local culture.

Khandwa district saw the organization of bike rallies, street plays, and programs in schools and hostels across 28 different locations, making over 1.20 lakh people aware of the dangers of drugs. In Gwalior, posters with anti-drug messages were displayed on auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws to ensure wide dissemination of the message. Additionally, street plays and pledge ceremonies were held in public areas.

Balaghat district saw awareness posters placed on government vehicles. Special attention was focused on slums and identified sensitive areas, where drug addicts and their families are being encouraged towards rehabilitation by providing information about de-addiction centers. In Mandla district, the campaign was effectively extended to tribal areas using public transport.

Meanwhile, Khargone organized marathons, street plays, and public awareness programs at 21 locations, including Maheshwar, making over 17,850 people aware. Ujjain adopted an innovative strategy by holding a meeting with social media influencers and content creators to leverage digital platforms for wider campaign reach. Awareness programs were also conducted at bus stands, markets, and other public places in the district.

Special Emphasis on Engaging Youth

During the campaign, special attention has been given to drawing active participation from youth and students through activities like drawing competitions, sports competitions, quizzes, marathons, and other creative endeavors. Trainees and police families have also been involved in the campaign at police training institutes and battalion premises, fostering awareness at the family level.

In several districts, the police have not only taken strict action against drugs but also disseminated information about de-addiction counseling and rehabilitation centers. The Madhya Pradesh Police has appealed to the public to actively participate in this important social campaign against drugs. Citizens are urged to stay away from drugs themselves, educate their families and society, and promptly report any information regarding the illegal drug trade to the police.

The ultimate goal of the police is for every section of society to become a part of this mass movement for de-addiction and contribute to building a healthy and safe Madhya Pradesh.