Continuing its sustained outreach under the 100-Day Mission Mode Campaign of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Bandipora today organised another edition of “Maa se Guftagu” at Bankoot, Bandipora aimed at strengthening community participation in the fight against drug abuse.
The programme was attended by District Programme Officer, ICDS Bandipora, Yaar Ali Khan and witnessed active participation of women, members of Panchayat Samitis, Anganwadi workers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), NRLM representatives, teachers, and local residents, who also interacted with the Deputy Commissioner during the awareness programme.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, stressed the need for collective vigilance and community counselling to curb the growing menace of smoking and substance abuse. The DC informed that strict directions had already been issued for banning the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products around schools and directed Principal High School Bankoot to ensure proper implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).
Highlighting the harmful effects of smoking, the DC urged participants to counsel their family members and neighbours about the dangers associated with smoking and passive smoking. She said that addiction not only destroys the health and future of an individual but also affects the entire family and society.
The DC further noted that women too are increasingly becoming victims of substance abuse and, in some instances, are found involved in peddling activities. She called upon women to play a proactive role in safeguarding families and communities from the drug menace.
Emphasising parental responsibility, the DC advised parents to remain vigilant about behavioural changes in their children and identify early symptoms of substance abuse. She urged families not to remain silent spectators and instead act as well-wishers by guiding and supporting affected individuals.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC also cautioned youth against falling prey to addiction, and appealed to the youth not to waste their lives and potential in substance abuse. The programme concluded with a collective pledge by participants to strengthen awareness efforts and continue community-based interventions for a drug-free society under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan