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The initiative by CBSE was based on the idea that building a drug-free society requires young people to be equipped with awareness and the ability to make responsible choices.
CBSE invited students to directly submit their questions using the hashtags #NashaMuktYuva and #CBSETalkathon. (File/Representative)
On Sunday, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) organised a 45-minute interactive session bringing together students and experts to discuss substance abuse, peer pressure, mental health and de-addiction, with students submitting questions through social media platforms including X, Instagram and YouTube.
The initiative followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call on August 2, 2026, for a drug-free India and focused on creating greater awareness among young people about the risks associated with drugs and intoxicants.
CBSE also invited students to directly submit their questions using the hashtags #NashaMuktYuva and #CBSETalkathon.
The questions covered concerns around mental health, dealing with peer pressure and the steps involved in overcoming substance dependence and seeking de-addiction support.
An expert panel comprising Prof. (Dr.) Nand Kumar from the Department of Psychiatry, AIIMS, New Delhi; Alka Awasthi, Principal of Mayoor School, Noida; and Dr. Anees C., Additional Director, Narcotics Control Bureau, New Delhi, responded to the queries during the live interaction.
The panel brought together perspectives from psychiatry, school education and drug enforcement, allowing students to approach the issue from different angles.
The session was also hosted by two Class 12 students, Samiya from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sector 4, R.K. Puram, Delhi, and Rohit Singh from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 3, Delhi Cantt.
The programme was livestreamed on CBSE’s official YouTube channel, with technical, production and logistical support provided by DD News.
CBSE said the initiative was based on the idea that building a drug-free society requires young people to be equipped with awareness and the ability to make healthy and responsible choices.
The discussion also forms part of the broader “Nasha Mukt Bharat” vision, with the board linking youth awareness to the long-term goal of building a developed India.
By allowing students to raise questions directly with experts, the Talkathon aimed to make conversations around substance abuse more open and accessible—particularly around issues such as peer pressure, mental well-being and seeking help.
For students, the format offered something beyond a classroom lecture: an opportunity to voice their concerns and hear responses from professionals working directly in the fields of mental health, education and drug control.
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Ask News18The Central Board of Secondary Education organised a 45-minute interactive talkathon to address substance abuse, mental health, and peer pressure by connecting students directly with experts. Students submitted questions via social media platforms like X, Instagram, and YouTube using designated hashtags.
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