Devendra Fadnavis Launches Campus Connect Anti-Drug Drive in Navi Mumbai

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday launched the 'Campus Connect' campaign under the Drug-Free Navi Mumbai Campaign to raise awareness among young people regarding the dangers of drug abuse. During his visit, Fadnavis also inaugurated the Integrated CCTV Command Centre at the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate office.

Speaking at the event, Fadnavis described the Drug-Free Navi Mumbai Campaign as a vital step in the battle against drug addiction in the region. He stressed that tackling addiction is particularly critical for the youth, who comprise a substantial portion of the nation's population.

Fadnavis noted that drug addiction threatens the potential of young people to contribute to national growth over the coming years. He warned that if youth fall prey to narcotics and other substances, they will not be able to realise their capabilities. He added that the campaign against drugs is not merely a social obligation but a shared responsibility involving both the state and the country.

Highlighting India's demographic advantages, Fadnavis stated that transforming the country's population into productive human resources is key to sustained growth. He noted that India's economic standing had advanced from 11th position in 2014 to fourth in 2025, with expectations to reach third place soon. He also referenced initiatives such as Startup India, Skill India, and Khelo India, introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government since 2014 to support youth participation.

The Campus Connect campaign is organized in collaboration with the Maharashtra government to educate students on substance abuse and encourage them to serve as ambassadors for a drug-free society through creative expression.

Several political leaders attended the inauguration ceremony, including state ministers Ganesh Naik and Bharat Gogawale, MLCs Vikrant Patil and Ravindra Phatak, and MLAs Manda Mhatre and Mahesh Baldi.