District Administration Bandipora in collaboration with the Social Welfare department Thursday organised an awareness-cum-cultural programme at the Auditorium Hall of Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Kaloosa to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
The event was aimed at raising awareness about the growing menace of substance abuse and mobilizing community support to build a drug-free society. The event was presided over by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, and witnessed the presence of Brand Ambassador NMBA, Faisal Ali Dar; Dy CEO, District Information Officer, DySP DAR, DySP, representatives from Health department, Excise department, civil society representatives, ASHA workers, AWWs, DDAC members, representatives from the Sankalp Hub, and a large gathering of school students from various educational institutions across the district.
Speaking on the occasion, DC said that earlier, children and youth would die due to epidemics, but those were overcome through strong public health campaigns and collective efforts. “Today, we face a new epidemic which is substance abuse and cannot be eliminated by government programmes alone.
It requires active support from parents, civil society, educational institutions, and every stakeholder,” he stressed. He urged the public to remain vigilant, especially towards youth, and emphasized the need to rehabilitate those already affected.
He reiterated NMBA’s goal to create a drug-free society through awareness, engagement, and action. On the occasion, DySP spoke on the role of police in curbing drug-related crimes and emphasized the need for community cooperation.
He urged students and the general public to immediately report any suspicious activity or drug abuse cases to the police, ensuring swift action. District Epidemiologist, appreciated the coordination among departments in addressing the issue of substance abuse.
He stated that addiction often starts with habits like smoking, which eventually become gateways to more dangerous drugs. Junaid Ahmad, a student of NM BHSS Kaloosa, and Manaan Wani from High School Bagh, delivered impactful speeches on the ill effects of drug abuse, calling for a united stand against addiction and promoting awareness among peers.
The cultural highlight of the programme was a Kashmiri musical performance and a skit by Reshi Cultural Society, both of which carried heartfelt appeals to those affected by drug abuse to return to a life of health and dignity.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by the District Information Officer, who appreciated the participation of various departments, civil society members, and students. He urged everyone, especially youth and the general public, to act as catalysts in spreading awareness and contributing meaningfully to the mission of eradicating drug abuse from the district.
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