Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra today organized a one day Youth Festival on the theme of Drug Abuse: Awareness Amongst the Youths. The Youth festival was organized in collaboration with the Excise and Taxation Department, J&K.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Padam Shree Prof. RK Sinha said that such events go a long way to educate the common masses about the drug abuse which has emerged as a menace to the young generation.
He hailed the initiative of the Excise Department for collaborating with the University to spread awareness about the menace among the students. He stressed the need for a healthy lifestyle and promotion of cultural values.
RC Kotwal, Comdt 1st Battalion IRP, Reasi said that drug menace is badly affecting society and its pertinent to spread awareness among people, especially the youth. He insisted the students should contribute their bit in the fight against the drug menace.
He gave a detailed presentation on various aspects of drug abuse. He called for greater youth engagement through sports and adventurous activities. Speaking on occasion, Sukriti Sharma, Dy. Excise Commissioner Accounts expressed her concern over drug abuse, and said that drug abuse is corroding the foundations of society.
Further, she stated that drug abuse has become a major social issue in UT of J&K. "The incidence of drug abuse among adolescents and youth is increasing at a higher rate.
Adding to it the increasing economic stress and changing cultural values are some other reasons leading to initiation into drug abuse. Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Registrar said Drug abuse has societal, security and geo strategic aspects.
“We need to inculcate a sense of discipline and healthy lifestyle among youth “he said. He thanked Deptt of Excise and J&K Police for sponsoring and supporting the anti-Drug event series. On the occasion video clips, reels created by students were displayed.
Students performed dance items, skits, music, folk songs and dances reflecting the culture & traditions of the UT. ETO, Udhampur Reasi Excise Range Rupali Vaid, also spoke on the occasion and said that menace of drug abuse is the challenge where Government alone cannot succeed unless there is community help, parental assistance and proactive role shown by all sections of society.
Finance Officer Neeraj Gupta Deans, faculty, staff members and large numbers of students were present during the programme. A cultural troupe provided by Jammu and Kashmir Academy for Art Culture and Languages JKAACL also enthralled the audience.
Dr Kamni Pathania, vice-president Board of cultural activities thanked distinguished guests for spreading awareness among university students and presented a formal vote of thanks. Earlier in the day students participated in the awareness rally.