Reasi, May 08: A mega awareness programme was organised at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex in Reasi under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, with a focus on strengthening community participation to combat drug abuse and promote a drug-free society.
Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment Sheetal Nanda, who attended the event as chief guest, expressed serious concern over the growing menace of drug abuse and stressed the need for sustained collective efforts involving families, educational institutions, civil society and government agencies.
She emphasized that a coordinated approach is essential to effectively address the challenge and build a healthier society. Highlighting the role of women in grassroots mobilisation, she said Mahila Nigrani Samitis can play a crucial role in identifying vulnerable individuals, counselling affected families, and guiding youth towards constructive activities.
She also urged parents to remain closely engaged with their children and encourage them to adopt disciplined and healthy lifestyles.
The Commissioner Secretary appealed to the public to support individuals affected by substance abuse and contribute to creating a socially responsible society. She also highlighted the importance of mental health support and informed participants about the Tele MANAS helpline service, encouraging people facing stress, addiction or emotional distress to seek counselling through the 24×7 toll-free number 14416.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek said the ongoing 100-day campaign under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan aims to curb drug abuse through strong community participation. He informed that ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and retired teachers have been included in Mahila Nigrani Samitis to strengthen grassroots outreach.
He urged citizens to actively support the administration by reporting cases of substance abuse or drug peddling to help eradicate the menace from the district.
Senior police and health officials, including Additional Superintendent of Police Iftekhar Ahmed and psychiatrists from District Hospital Reasi, also addressed the gathering, stressing awareness, counselling, and family support as key measures to combat drug addiction among youth.
A pledge was administered to all participants, who committed to working towards a drug-free and healthy society.
