On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Navbharat Times (NBT) honoured renowned recovery advocate Anuj Johri with the prestigious NBT Prernadeep Samman 2026 (Prernadeep Award 2026). The recognition celebrates his remarkable three-decade commitment to drug de-addiction awareness, rehabilitation, recovery counselling and community service, making him one of the leading voices promoting a drug-free India.
Anuj Johri’s inspiring journey began on 18 April 1995, when he made the life-changing decision to overcome the disease of addiction. What started as a personal battle gradually evolved into a lifelong mission to guide others towards recovery. Today, after more than 32 years of living addiction-free, he continues to dedicate his life to supporting individuals and families affected by substance-use disorder.
Following nearly a year of treatment and rehabilitation at a de-addiction centre under the guidance of Dr. Kiran Bedi, Johri was offered a position at the same rehabilitation facility. Recognising his commitment, Dr. Bedi, with support from UNDCP, enabled him to complete a one-year Peer Support Counselling Diploma. He successfully completed the programme and was honoured with the Best Trainee Award, strengthening his professional counselling skills alongside his lived experience.
Committed to continuous learning, Johri has participated in nearly 36 specialised training programmes and professional workshops, earning certifications in addiction recovery and rehabilitation. His notable achievements include the Peer Support Counselling Diploma, NISD training programmes, and the Star Achiever Award, presented by Dr. Kiran Bedi, along with several other professional recognitions.
In 2015, he established ACHIEVER ALLIANCE OF RECOVERING ADDICTS (AARA), a non-governmental organisation working to create awareness about drug addiction as a disease while promoting prevention, counselling and rehabilitation. According to the organisation, its awareness initiatives have encouraged thousands of individuals to begin recovery, while nearly 60 of Johri’s former trainees now operate their own de-addiction and rehabilitation centres across different parts of India, often inviting him as a mentor and advisor.
For Anuj Johri, recovery is not merely about leaving addiction behind—it is about rebuilding lives with dignity, restoring hope and inspiring others through action. His guiding philosophy remains simple yet profound: “The way I live my life today is my message.”
The NBT Prernadeep Samman 2026 is more than an award; it is a recognition of resilience, compassion and sustained public service. As India continues strengthening its fight against substance abuse, Anuj Johri’s recognition through the NBT Prernadeep Award 2026 stands as an inspiring reminder that one courageous decision can illuminate the path for countless others and help build a healthier, addiction-free nation.
