Under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, an awareness programme on drug abuse was organised at Mangnipora on Monday by Indian Army’s Wullar Battalion in collaboration with the Education Department to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Zonal Education Officer Quilmuqam delivered the welcome address and highlighted the negative physical, psychological and social consequences of drug abuse. He stressed the need for collective efforts to protect youth from falling prey to addiction. The Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge to participants and urged everyone to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the serious threat posed by drug abuse, particularly among youth, and emphasized the importance of community participation in combating the menace. She urged young people to adopt healthy lifestyles and stay away from drugs.
The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted the provisions of the COTPA Act, which prohibits the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco-related products in and around educational institutions. She directed the District Health Officer Bandipora and Zonal Education Officer to conduct regular inspections to ensure strict implementation of the Act.
The Deputy Commissioner said greater collective efforts would help reduce youth involvement in substance abuse and warned participants about the dangers of passive smoking. Cautioning students against drug peddlers, she said such elements often lure youth in different ways before trapping them in addiction.
Urging participants to remain vigilant, the Deputy Commissioner remarked, “Respect all, suspect all,” and encouraged the public to extend support and share feedback with the administration in the fight against substance abuse. The programme also featured awareness and interactive sessions focusing on the harmful effects of drug addiction and the need for a united societal response towards building a drug-free society.
The event concluded with participants expressing commitment towards supporting the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. Among others, the programme witnessed participation of District Health Officer Bandipora, CDPO ICDS, Supervisors, Anganwadi workers and Helpers, students, teachers, officials, local residents, representatives from the Defence Labour Department and sports organisations.