DODA, APRIL 08: The Divisional Level Mega Awareness Programme organized by the Directorate of School Education Jammu was inaugurated today at Town Hall Doda. The inaugural day witnessed the commencement of technical sessions, marking the beginning of the three-day awareness initiative.
The main event was simultaneously held at the Convention Hall Jammu, where the programme was formally inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah. The live telecast of the event was held at the venue, enabling students and participants to witness the proceedings virtually.
The programme here was graced by MLA Doda West Shakti Raj Parihar, as the Chief Guest, while District Development Commissioner Krishan Lal attended as the Guest of Honour. Former DDC Chairman Dhananter Singh Kotwal and former Minister and Religious Leader Khalid Najib Suhrawardy were also present on the occasion. The event was ably anchored by Master Om Prakash Bhagat.
Among others present included Joint Director Education Mohammad Ashfaq; CPO Manesh Kumar Manhas; ACD Din Mohammad Afaqi; Chief Education Officer Bhushan Kumar Pathak; ASP Headquarters, Principal GDC, along with district officers, teaching staff and a large number of students.
The event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Chief Guest. Students from Government Girls Higher Secondary School presented a soulful rendition of the National Anthem under the guidance of Master Om Prakash Bhagat, followed by a welcome song that added vibrancy to the occasion.
The participants took a solemn pledge to fight against drug abuse, reinforcing the commitment to build a drug-free society.
In his inaugural address, the chief guest spoke extensively on the issue of drug abuse and congratulated the organizers for conducting such an important awareness programme. “Drug abuse is one of the biggest challenges faced by the country today and the goal of Nasha Mukt Bharat can only be achieved through collective efforts,” the Chief Guest noted.
He directed the police department to act strictly against drug peddlers and urged people to come forward, irrespective of caste, creed or religion to eradicate the menace of drugs from society and the nation. He also appealed to the public to promote traffic awareness, cultivate civic sense and actively contribute towards environmental protection. He stressed that illegal activities must not be supported under any circumstances.
Speaking on the occasion, the District Development Commissioner emphasized the importance of traffic discipline and urged students to follow rules responsibly. He stressed the need to prioritize mental well-being through practices like yoga. He further called for collective efforts towards environmental conservation, including plantation drives and prevention of deforestation. He also highlighted the ongoing 100-day drug de-addiction campaign in the district and informed that Panchayat-level committees have been constituted to combat drug abuse, urging community and religious leaders to actively participate in the campaign.
Former Minister Najib Suhrawardy also addressed the gathering, expressing concern over rising drug abuse and increasing digital distractions among youth. He encouraged students and parents to remain vigilant, promote value-based education and focus on holistic development rather than merely job-oriented goals.
Earlier, the Chief Education Officer delivered the welcome address, highlighting that the three-day programme aims to raise awareness on key issues such as traffic safety, mental health, drug de-addiction, career counselling and environmental protection.