New Delhi, Aug 2026 : More than 4,000 young Indians, largely from the Gen Z generation, gathered at Bharat Mandapam here for an Independence Day Cultural Musical Evening that combined patriotism, cultural expression and a strong message against drug abuse.
The event, hosted by Member of Parliament Vikramjit Singh Sahney on Thursday, was organised around the theme “Nasha Mukt Yuva Bharat” and sought to inspire young people to embrace a healthy, productive and drug-free lifestyle. The evening featured traditional cultural performances, patriotic musical presentations and a special performance by popular singer Mika Singh.
The programme brought together political leaders, Members of Parliament, social organisations and a large number of young people. Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also attended the event, adding significance to the campaign aimed at creating greater awareness about the dangers of substance abuse among India's youth.
One of the most moving moments of the evening was the felicitation of the families of Indian Army martyrs. The families were honoured for the supreme sacrifices made by their loved ones in the service of the nation. The gesture also recognised the courage and resilience of families who continue to preserve the legacy of the country's bravehearts.
Sahney said the gathering reflected the vision of building a strong and empowered young India as part of the broader goal of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’. He stressed that India's youth must be provided not only with awareness about the dangers of addiction but also with skills, dignity, employment opportunities and a supportive environment.
The young participants took a collective pledge to stay away from intoxicants and work as ambassadors of a ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’. The pledge was aimed at encouraging young people to become active participants in the country's campaign against drug abuse and to promote healthier choices within their communities.
Sahney highlighted the work being undertaken by the Sun Foundation in the areas of skill development and rehabilitation, particularly in Punjab. The organisation has been integrating vocational training with rehabilitation programmes to help people recovering from addiction regain confidence, develop employable skills and return to mainstream society.
He emphasised that rehabilitation should go beyond treatment and focus on creating sustainable opportunities for those seeking to rebuild their lives. Providing young people with meaningful avenues for education, employment and entrepreneurship, he said, would be crucial to preventing them from falling into the cycle of substance abuse.
The event also saw the participation of MPs Tarun Chugh, Govind Laljibhai Dholakia, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Tiruchi Siva and Ashok Kumar Mittal, besides several other prominent personalities from the national capital.
The evening concluded with a renewed collective commitment to building a healthier, stronger and empowered Yuva Bharat, with the message that India's young population can play a decisive role in shaping the country's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
