As part of the ongoing 100-day campaign under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, District Administration Pulwama today organised a mega awareness event at Government Boys Higher Secondary School Kakapora. The event aimed at creating awareness about the menace of drug abuse, particularly among youth and students.
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom and witnessed enthusiastic participation of students, youth and members of civil society. Speakers on the occasion highlighted various aspects related to drug abuse, describing it as a societal challenge that adversely affects individuals, families and the community at large.
They stressed the need for collective efforts to curb the menace and promote a healthy, drug-free society. The programme also featured a series of cultural performances including Rouf, martial arts demonstrations and student speeches centred around the theme of drug de-addiction and awareness.
Addressing the gathering, the DC said that the 100-day campaign has been launched in the district with a comprehensive three-pronged strategy focusing on Information, Education and Communication (IEC), treatment, rehabilitation and prevention, and enforcement.
He added that the campaign is being implemented through a coordinated, multi-sectoral and community-driven approach. Highlighting the role of civil society, local community and religious leaders in the successful implementation of the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, he urged them to actively participate and take collective responsibility in spreading awareness and discouraging drug abuse at all levels.
While appreciating the participation of youth, civil society and senior citizens of Kakapora in government initiatives, he said that the people of Kakapora are expected to set an example for other areas in leading the campaign. The DC further said that a detailed action plan has been devised with activities scheduled across all educational institutions, as well as in Panchayats and Municipalities across the district.
He added that the Sports Department has also framed a plan to engage youth in constructive sports activities to promote a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. On the occasion, Dr. Qayoom also highlighted that while strict enforcement measures are being taken against drug peddlers, equal emphasis is being laid on treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration of victims with compassion and dignity.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner also advised the students to stay away from drugs and focus on education, sports and other constructive activities for their overall development. He urged them to act as ambassadors of change by spreading awareness among their peers and within their communities about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of leading a healthy, drug-free life.
Furthermore, during the event, the Deputy Commissioner led the participants in taking the Nasha Mukt pledge as a collective resolve to work towards a drug-free society. Among others, the event was attended by Chief Medical Officer, Pulwama; District Social Welfare Officer, Pulwama; District Education Planning Officer, Pulwama; Principal, Government Boys Higher Secondary School Kakapora, besides other officers.
Meanwhile, similar awareness programmes were also organised at Gutroo Tral, Konibal Pampore and Dalipora, Pulwama, where resource persons from various line departments sensitised participants about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of collective action in eradicating the menace.