Srinagar: In his first Mann Ki Baat address in 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about Sheikhgund, a village in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, praising a powerful community-led effort to combat substance abuse.
“When the collective strength of family and society comes together, even the toughest challenges can be overcome,” the PM said.
In the nationally relayed programme, PM referred to the growing menace of drugs, tobacco, cigarettes and alcohol in the village, which deeply disturbed Mir Jafar, a local resident. Determined to bring change, Mir Jafar mobilised the entire community, uniting youth and elders alike against the social evil.
PM Modi noted that the impact of this initiative was remarkable, with shops in the village stopping the sale of tobacco products. The campaign also significantly enhanced public awareness about the harmful effects of drugs, setting an inspiring example of community-driven social reform.
