The Department of Social Welfare today organised a programme to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the theme "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchan" at the New Auditorium Hall, GDC Ground, Poonch, aimed at generating awareness among the public, especially youth, about the harmful effects of drug abuse and encouraging collective efforts to make Poonch a drug-free district.
MLA Haveli Aijaz Ahmed Jan attended the event as chief guest and sensitised participants to the dangerous impact of drug addiction, stressing the need for continuous awareness campaigns and public participation to protect the younger generation from drugs.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma urged the youth to adopt a healthy and productive lifestyle. He said collective efforts would make Poonch a drug-free district, assured the administration's commitment to this goal and called upon all sections of society to actively participate in the fight against drug abuse.
District Social Welfare Officer Adil Shabir highlighted the Social Welfare Department's initiatives in generating awareness against drug abuse and extending support for rehabilitation and social welfare programmes. Lecturer Haroon Rathore conducted the proceedings.
Various speakers also spoke on the ill effects of drug abuse, appealing to the youth to stay away from drugs and encouraging participants to spread awareness about the harmful consequences of addiction among others. The programme concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony against drug abuse, where participants reaffirmed their commitment to a healthy, safe and Nasha Mukt Poonch.
Among those present were Senior Superintendent of Police Shafqat Hussain Butt, Additional Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik, Addl SP Dr Ajay, Principal GDC Poonch Dr Jasbir Singh, religious heads, representatives of various organisations, prominent citizens and officers from different departments.