SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday led an anti-drug ‘padyatra’ in the central Kashmir district of Budgam as part of the ongoing ‘Nasha Mukht Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan’. The march, aimed at raising awareness and fostering community engagement against substance abuse, saw enthusiastic participation from students, youth, civil society members, and district administration officials.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Lieutenant Governor, addressing the assembled participants, underscored the critical need for a unified community effort to combat the pervasive issue of drug abuse. He appealed to the younger generation to firmly reject narcotics and embrace a drug-free lifestyle. The administration’s commitment to eradicating drug trafficking was reiterated, with assurances of stringent action against offenders, coupled with continuous awareness campaigns and dedicated rehabilitation initiatives.
Officials present at the event reported that the ‘padyatra’ concluded with all participants taking a solemn pledge to actively contribute towards building a society free from the scourge of drugs. This march is a significant component of the Lieutenant Governor’s broader 100-day intensive campaign, the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan’. The campaign is designed to curb drug abuse through extensive public outreach programmes and widespread awareness initiatives across the Union Territory.
The ‘Nasha Mukht Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan’ is a multi-pronged strategy that includes not only awareness and rehabilitation but also emphasizes enforcement measures against those involved in the supply chain of illicit substances. The initiative seeks to create a strong deterrent against drug peddlers while simultaneously providing support systems for individuals struggling with addiction. The administration has been actively involving local communities, educational institutions, and various government departments to ensure a comprehensive and participatory approach.
Educational institutions have been encouraged to integrate anti-drug awareness into their curriculum, with workshops and seminars being organized for students and faculty. Civil society groups are playing a vital role in disseminating information at the grassroots level, mobilizing public opinion against drug abuse, and identifying individuals who may require assistance. The focus is on creating a social environment where drug use is not only unacceptable but actively discouraged by the community itself.
The Lieutenant Governor’s office has been closely monitoring the progress of the campaign, with regular reviews of the activities undertaken in different districts. The emphasis is on a sustained effort rather than a short-term drive, ensuring that the momentum gained is maintained and leads to tangible, long-term results in curbing drug abuse across Jammu and Kashmir. The administration has also been working on strengthening the rehabilitation infrastructure, making de-addiction centers more accessible and effective in their treatment protocols.
The participation of a large number of students and youth in the ‘padyatra’ signifies a growing awareness and commitment among the younger population to actively combat drug abuse. This demographic is often at the forefront of societal change, and their involvement is seen as crucial for the success of the campaign. The administration is banking on this energy to foster a positive peer influence and create a culture of health and well-being.
The Chenab Times News Desk