Bandipora, April 21: Continuing the district-wide outreach under the 100-Day Mission Mode campaign of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Bandipora on Tuesday organised a “Dosti Discussion” programme at Government Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Dawar, Gurez, aimed at raising awareness and fostering dialogue on drug abuse prevention.
The programme, held at the BHSS Dawar auditorium, commenced with the National Anthem and was attended by PO ICDS, ACP, SDM Gurez, Principal GDC Gurez, Executive Engineers, Tehsildar Gurez, BDO Gurez, ZEOs, Principals of various schools, BMO, KVK Incharge, SHO, TSO, besides senior citizens, AWWs, ASHA workers and a large number of students.
An official spokesperson told Kashmir Convener that a warm welcome address was delivered by Shaukat Ali, Lecturer at BHSS Dawar, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives and termed the presence of Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, as inspiring for the youth and reflective of the administration’s commitment towards societal welfare.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister’s message on drug abuse was presented, noting that over 11 crore people have joined the movement against substance abuse, and emphasising the need to protect future generations while ensuring rehabilitation of addicts. A video clip on drug awareness was also screened.
SDM Gurez delivered a detailed introduction under the theme of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, stating that drug abuse silently enters lives and destroys individuals and families. He identified key causes including negative peer influence, mental stress, unemployment, and domestic issues, and stressed collective responsibility in addressing the problem.
The programme featured a cultural performance by students of BHSS Dawar, which was widely appreciated. Speakers underscored the importance of engaging youth in cultural and sports activities to channel their energy in a positive direction.
Dr. Imtiyaz Ahmad, Senior Consultant at SDH Dawar, spoke on the ill effects of drug addiction, highlighting how it damages the nervous system and weakens the fabric of society. He stressed that keeping youth away from drugs is essential for building a strong nation and called for awareness, prevention, and strong willpower to combat addiction.
A panel discussion under the “Dosti Discussion” series was held with students of classes 10th, 11th, and 12th, who actively engaged with the Deputy Commissioner. Students shared insightful observations and suggestions, including banning the sale of tobacco products near schools, organising large-scale awareness campaigns involving imams, chowkidars, lumberdars, and senior citizens, and maintaining vigilance to keep Gurez drug-free. Students also emphasised the importance of supporting administration and police by sharing information about drug peddlers while ensuring confidentiality.
The Deputy Commissioner Bandipora appreciated the panel and the Principal for the thoughtful selection of participants. She reiterated that the district administration is actively conducting awareness campaigns in collaboration with all stakeholders, including religious leaders.
Addressing the gathering, the DC observed that parents often ignore or dismiss concerns about their children’s behaviour, which delays timely intervention.
Emphasising the importance of choosing the right peer group, she advised students to remain vigilant against any attempts to lure them into substance abuse and encouraged open communication within families and communities.
The programme concluded with an interactive session between the audience and the Deputy Commissioner, followed by a vote of thanks by the Principal of BHSS Dawar.
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