Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) took a proactive stance against drug abuse, organizing a comprehensive anti-drug awareness rally at its Shalimar campus in Srinagar. The initiative, conducted under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, aimed to educate the public on the perils of drug addiction and promote a healthier, drug-free society.
The awareness drive was a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Dean Students Welfare department, working in conjunction with the Kashmir Jurists Bar Association. The program underscored the importance of unifying institutions and community organizations in addressing the growing concerns related to substance abuse in the region, sources indicate to TahirRihat.com.
The event was graced by the presence of key figures, with Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, serving as the chief guest. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nighat Aman was also present as the guest of honor, further emphasizing the collaboration between law enforcement and academic institutions in tackling drug-related issues.
The proceedings commenced with a welcoming address delivered by the Dean Students Welfare, setting the stage for the subsequent discussions and activities. Following the welcome, guests were formally felicitated, acknowledging their contributions to the cause of combating drug abuse and promoting community well-being.
Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai addressed the assembled gathering, reaffirming the university’s unwavering dedication to the vision of a “Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir.” He emphasized the shared responsibility of educational institutions and society at large in shielding young individuals from the clutches of substance abuse. The Vice Chancellor’s words underscored the critical role of prevention and education in creating a drug-free environment for the youth.
SSP Nighat Aman highlighted the detrimental consequences of drug addiction, urging students and young people to actively engage in awareness campaigns designed to eradicate the menace from society. Her address emphasized the significance of collective action and community involvement in addressing the complex challenges posed by drug abuse.
Furthermore, SSP Nighat Aman stressed the crucial role of parents, particularly mothers, in preventing drug abuse among youth. She emphasized the importance of open communication, parental guidance, and early intervention in identifying and addressing potential risk factors that could lead to substance abuse.
During the program, National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers from SKUAST-K participated in an oath-taking ceremony, pledging their commitment to contributing towards building a drug-free society. The oath symbolized their dedication to promoting a positive and healthy environment, free from the harmful effects of drug addiction.
The highlight of the event was the anti-drug awareness rally, which was officially flagged off by the Vice Chancellor in the presence of faculty members, students, and other participants. A significant number of NSS volunteers, students, teachers, and schoolchildren joined the rally, carrying placards and disseminating information about the dangers of drug addiction.
The rally served as a powerful visual demonstration of the community’s collective resolve to combat drug abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle. The participants marched through the Shalimar campus and surrounding areas, raising awareness among local residents and encouraging them to join the fight against drug addiction.
The event at SKUAST-K reflects a growing emphasis on collaborative efforts between educational institutions, law enforcement, and community organizations to address the challenges of drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir. By engaging students, parents, and community members in awareness campaigns and preventive measures, the initiative aims to create a sustainable impact on the fight against substance abuse and promote a healthier future for the region’s youth.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.