Bandipora, Feb 17: In a collaborative effort to address the rising issue of drug abuse, an awareness programme was organized at the ICDS Centre in Mangnipora village of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Saturday.
An official spokesperson said the awareness programme, led by the District Drug De-Addiction Centre (DDAC) in collaboration with the District Administration, aimed to educate frontline workers and the public about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
The programme, facilitated by DC Bandipora, Dr. Shakeel ul Rehman Rather, and DSWO Bandipora, Hidaitullah Mir, brought together ICDS workers, ASHAAs, PRIs, health workers, and youth. Posters and pamphlets were distributed to raise awareness about the services provided by DDAC Bandipora and the dangers of drug abuse.
Rehana Akhter, Manager of DDAC Bandipora, guided the event and speakers discussed the signs of drug abuse and the services available at DDAC, including treatment and counseling.
Mudasir Wani, Counselor at DDAC, emphasized the need for intervention and highlighted the free services offered for patients.
Jawahar Ahmad, an Outreach Worker at DDAC, stressed the importance of collective action in combating drug abuse, urging community involvement.
Farhat Zahoor, a yoga therapist at DDAC, discussed holistic approaches to combat stress and depression, promoting meditation and exercise as alternative coping methods.
The programme received positive feedback from participants, with pledges of support from the community. Informative materials were distributed to ensure the message of awareness reached a wider audience.
