UDHAMPUR, MAY 11: A One-day training cum awareness Programme under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was organised today for members of the Mahila Nigrani Samities here by the Social Welfare Department in coordination with the District Administration and NRLM Udhampur.
Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa attended the programme as the chief guest while District Social Welfare Officer Kanika Gupta presided over the event.
The programme aimed to sensitise the members about their vital role in preventing drug abuse and strengthening community vigilance at the grassroots level.
Addressing the participants, the Deputy Commissioner emphasised that the Samiti members are the eyes and ears of society. He urged them to remain vigilant and promptly share valuable inputs with the authorities regarding any incidents or activities related to drug abuse or drug peddling in their respective areas.
Highlighting the district administration’s strategy to tackle the menace of drug abuse, the DC underlined three key focus areas reduction in demand, reduction in supply and rehabilitation of affected individuals. He stated that demand reduction is being addressed through sustained awareness campaigns and active community participation, while supply reduction is being ensured through close coordination with the Police Department and timely reporting of suspicious activities by the public.
Officers from the Social Welfare and Health Departments sensitised the participants to the early signs and symptoms of drug abuse including sudden behavioural changes, isolation, mood swings, decline in academic or work performance and unexplained financial needs.
The participants were also educated about counselling services, motivation for detoxification, rehabilitation facilities and the importance of early intervention to help affected individuals recover and reintegrate into society.
Representatives from the Social Welfare Department, Employment Department, Police Department and NRLM also shared valuable insights regarding the support mechanisms available for drug-affected individuals, including counselling, skill development, livelihood assistance and rehabilitation support for their effective reintegration into mainstream society.