KULGAM, APRIL 11: The 100-day intensive campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was today launched in Kulgam with a series of awareness activities aimed at combating drug abuse and promoting a healthy, drug-free society.
The campaign was kick-started by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, along with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary.
On the occasion, a plantation drive was organised and a pledge-taking ceremony was held wherein participants pledged to stay away from drugs and work collectively towards building a drug-free society.
A Pad Yatra, which started from Mini-Secretariat to DPL Kulgam, was also organised.
A blood donation camp was also organised as part of the programme at DPL Kulgam.
An awareness session was also held at the Conference Hall, Mini Secretariat.
While addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner emphasised the need for coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, including government departments, educational institutions, community leaders and youth, to effectively tackle the issue of drug abuse. He urged people, particularly the youth, to actively participate in the campaign and contribute towards building a drug-free society.
He added that youth have a vital role to play in the campaign and encouraged them to take advantage of various government employment and livelihood schemes aimed at generating opportunities for young people.
He further said that strong willpower and community support are essential in overcoming substance abuse and added that strict action will be taken against drug suppliers as per law.
The SSP also addressed the gathering and said that substance abuse is a serious issue affecting society. He stated that the 100-day campaign aims to strengthen awareness and enforcement efforts to curb the menace. He stressed that community participation is crucial in dismantling the drug network and urged people to come forward with information about drug peddlers. He assured that strict action will be taken against those involved in drug trafficking while emphasising the need to support victims through rehabilitation.
Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Altaf Ahmad Khan while speaking on the occasion, called upon people to “say no to drugs and yes to life.” He said that substance abuse has emerged as a serious challenge in society and stressed the need to channelise the energy of youth in positive directions.
Ex-DDC Chairperson, Mohd Afzal also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of collective efforts in eliminating drug abuse from society.
During the programme, youth who shared innovative ideas to tackle drug abuse under an Ideath on were awarded for their suggestions.
The event witnessed participation from officers of various departments, police officials, students and members of civil society.