Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, June 26: Various educational, social, cultural and government organizations observed `International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’ by organizing awareness programmes including rallies and seminars to educate the people, specially youth and children about its ill effects.
Under the Union Government’s program `NASHA MUKT BHARAT ABHIYAN’, Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), the specialised wing of J&K Police to tackle the menace of Drugs, Jammu Zone, in collaboration with NCB and Cluster University Jammu conducted an awareness program followed by rally at MAM College Jammu on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The day is observed every year on this on June 26, since 1989.
The June 26 is to commemorate Lin Zexu’s dismantling of opium trade in humen, Guangdong, China ending on June 25, 1839 just before the first Opium war in China. During the programme students of various colleges, NCC and NSS Cadets, Professors, staff of NCB and ANTF participated. The lecture on menace of drug abuse was delivered by DySP ANTF Jammu Zone Shamsher Singh, and Dean Academic Affairs Cluster University Jammu Prof Ranvijay Singh Salaria, Prof Sugandha Mahajan and participants were made aware against the alarming rise in the number of drug abusers, drug peddlers, drug distributers across the UT of J&K NSS Coordinator Prof Mala Bhasin along with NSS Programme Officers Dr Koushal Kiran and Dr Shubhra Jamwal were also present on the occasion.
ANTF advised general public and people of all walks of life to aware their young wards against the menace of narcotic drug and psychotropic substances. It has advised the youth to stay away from drugs, help the drug dependents get proper treatment at hospitals, Drug De-addiction Centres and Rehabilitation centres and to share any kind of information regarding drug related activities with ANTF so that strict legal action is taken against such drug dealers.
In connection with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Drugs & Food Control Organisation, Jammu today held an awareness campaign- cum-seminar at Jammu City with involvement of stakeholders from all walks of life .
Speaking on the occasion, Mohd Iqbal Palla, Deputy Drugs Controller said that the objective of the day is to raise awareness about the significance of treating individuals who use drugs with respect and empathy. The day also focuses on prioritizing prevention and approaching the issue with compassion. It aims to address and combat the stigma and discrimination faced by people who use drugs. He emphasized that the first step towards prevention involves proper awareness about the multiple aspects of drug abuse. He said that the Department has adopted zero tolerance policy against the nefarious elements and has taken pro- active measures to prohibit the illicit use of medicinal formulations.
Surinder Mohan, Deputy Drugs Controller (HQ) said that drug addiction leads to a brain disorder that puts young abusers, mostly teenagers and adolescents at a greater risk. The most effective prevention tactics are informative discussions about the effects and consequences of drug abuse. He emphasized that all the sections of society shall join hands to propagate the awareness regarding ill effects of drug abuse amongst the ignorant masses.
Meanwhile, Lotika Khajuria, State Drugs Controller has impressed upon all the sections of society particularly the Chemists & Druggists fraternity to join their hands against this social evil so that we can eradicate the menace from the society.
J&K Excise Department observed International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by organizing various awareness events on the directions of Excise Commissioner, Pankaj Kumar Sharma. Dy Excise Commissioner Executive Kashmir Tazayun Mukhtar, officials of the Excise Range North Kashmir carried out awareness programs against drug abuse of narcotic crops at three different places, Sumbal/ Hajin, Sopore and GDC Baramulla. Pamphlets, posters highlighting the evil effects of drugs were distributed to students and local populace. A rally was also taken out.
In Jammu, a grand program was organized by the Excise Department at Abhinav Theatre Jammu, under the supervision of Dy Excise Commissioner, Jammu Kusum Sharma. Besides lectures by resource persons, awareness was created against use of drugs though cultural items.
Health and Family Welfare Department under District Mental Health Programme Leh organised an awareness program in connection with Intl Day against Drug Abuse, at Govt Higher Secondary School Leh. CMO Leh, Dr Norzin Angmo, DHO Leh Dr Jamila, Psychiatrict Dr Padma Angmo and Principal T Dolma educated the students about effects of drugs and other contraband substances.
On the occasion of Intl Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’, IIT Jammu fervently reinforced its commitment to combat the menace of drugs by taking a resolute to say, ” yes to life and no to drugs”. In a ceremony presided over by Dean Administration, Prof Vijayan Palipattu accompanied by Prof Anurag Mishra, Dean Infra, Planing and Management and Registrar, the proceedings witnessed an overwhelming participation of students, faculty and staff members.
IIM Jammu to mark International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking organized an expert panel discussion on Recognizing the stages of Addiction: Early Intervention and Prevention Strategies here today.
The session featured Dr Arati Chowdhary, Oral Physician and Dental Oncologist at SRJ CBCC Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Pallavi Singh, Program Director, JK Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses, Dr Pawan Gupta, Director, Surgical Oncology, Max Healthcare, and moderated by Dr. Niti Shekar, Assistant Professor, Business Policy, Strategy & Entrepreneurship, IIM Jammu.
The panel discussion provided a comprehensive understanding of addiction and equipped participants with the necessary knowledge to recognize early signs. It delved into the importance of early intervention and exploring effective prevention strategies. All the panelists provided detailed insights into the negative effects of tobacco, smoking, drugs, alcohol, etc, and sensitized the students on the negative impacts caused by addiction.
On the eve of the International Day against ‘Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,’ the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of the J&K Police partnered with the Kashmir Road Safety Foundation to organize an awareness event and drug-free rally here today.
The event attracted a wide range of participants, including students, officials, and locals, including SSP Anti-Narcotics Task Force Raj Kumar, who reiterated the commitment of the task force to eradicate the drug menace in Kashmir and called upon the public to report any suspicious activities related to drugs in their communities. SSP emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of drugs and commended the significant progress made in combating drug abuse.
Kumar urged the public to remain vigilant and collaborate with the police by promptly reporting any drug-related activities, particularly the activities of drug peddlers. He assured the community that swift action would be taken upon receiving such information.
International Day against Drug Addiction and Illicit Trafficking was observed today by the Department of Psychiatry at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina. The program started with an inaugural ceremony followed by a panel discussion in which dignitaries from various backgrounds deliberated upon the theme of the day: “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.”
Those who addressed the event include Khurshid Ahmad Gania, Ex-Advisor to the Governor of the erstwhile State of J&K; Prof. Bashir Ahmad Laway, Dean of SKIMS Deemed University; Prof. Irfan Rubbani, Principal of SKIMS Medical College Bemina, Srinagar; Bashir Ahmad Dar, former Secretary of the Board of School Education Department; Ghulam Jeelani Nehvi, Retired IAS officer; Nighat Jabeen, Drug Controller Kashmir; Zaffar Iqbal, Editor and senior journalist; Mohammad Maroof Shah, Author and Columnist; Dr Abdul Majid, Professor & Head of Psychiatry at SKIMS Bemina; and Dr Ashfaq Ahmad Bhat, Professor & Head of Community Medicine.
The experts and other stakeholders raised concerns regarding the increasing trend of drug addiction in society. They emphasized that addiction not only ruins the individual but also has devastating effects on families and society at large. They stressed that substance abuse should be considered and treated as a disorder, and the approach towards such patients should be humane.
Govt SPMR College of Commerce Jammu organized a seminar on `Behavioural Addiction’ to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking here today. The programme commenced with the felicitation of resource person Dr Surinder Kumar, Principal of the College. He enlightened the students regarding drug addiction. Dr Shehnaz Bhat, I/C Drugs De-addiction Centre, DPL Jammu also spoke on the occasion.
Govt Degree College for Women Kathua, in collaboration with NCC Unit organized a visit to Addition Treatment Centre, Govt Medical College Kathua to mark International Day against Drug Abuse today. The students gained the first hand experience by visiting the ATF Centre. Dr Diksha from GMC and Assistant Professor Mustafa Ali spoke on the subject on the occasion.
South Asia Centre for Peace and Peoples Empowerment (SACPPE), vice president, Umar Bhat, today called for united action against drug abuse and illicit trafficking to protect future generations and create a drug-free nation.
Speaking at an event organized to observe International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Bhat urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to lend their support, emphasizing the significance of their involvement in safeguarding future generations. He emphasized the importance of collective action and highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to expand their reach across the country.
The Sub District Police Akhnoor organised a seminar on drug abuse in Govt Degree College Khour and Ayurvedic College Akhnoor. The participants expressed their views and shared many ideas for holistic approach to achieve the aim of drug free society.
Faculty members of Govt Degree Colleges also expressed their ideas. Those who spoke include Assistant Professors Arun Sharma and Tarsem Lal; Principal Ayurvedic College Narinder Sharma. SDPO Akhnoor Mohan Lal Sharma; SHO Khour Rahul Mahajan, SHO Akhnoor Zaheer Mushtaq appealed students to stay away from drugs.
Red Ribbon Club of GDC Vijaypur in collaboration with NSS unit of the college observed Intl Day against Drug Abuse as part of `Nasha Mukti Bharat Mission’ under the leadership of Principal Dr Vandana Gupta. On the occasion the students and staff took pledge to stay away from the drugs and motivate the society as well.
The NCC and NSS Units of Govt Degree College Rajouri, organized a massive event on drug abuse among the youth in collaboration with District Administration under the guidance of Principal, Dr Shamim Ahmed Azad. The vent started with the brief introduction about ill impact of drugs on society, by NCC officer Maj Tanveer Ahmed (Boys Wing) and Prof Salma Farooq NCC officer (Girls wing). Dr Naseem Malik, NSS officer also spoke on the subject.
To mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the District Administration Baramulla under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar today organised a series of events which aimed to disseminate awareness about the ill hazards of drug abuse among the masses. The activities include rallies, drawing/painting competitions among other interesting and useful events.
A mega seminar- cum- workshop was presided over by the DC at Govt Degree College for Boys at Baramulla which was organised by Social Welfare Department in collaboration with Education Department and the college authorities. The event laid special thrust on educating masses about the menace of drug abuse in the society.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla highlighted the need of mass mobilization and awareness and terms the role of all stakeholders pivotal in curbing the menace of substance/drug abuse. Dr Sehrish said that District Administration Baramulla has taken various initiatives in order to bring back and support the victims so that they can live a normal life again.
The NCORD Cell of GDC Udhampur alongwith NSS and NCC Units of 2 JK Boys and Girls Battation organsied a number of programs on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. There have been orientation lectures, start of signature campaign against drugs, online and offline pledge taking against Drugs and Illicit Trafficking, and a rally.
All programs were held under the patronage of Principal Prof Romesh Gupta, and supervision of Dr Pankaj Sharma, Prof Shivani Sharma and Dr Rippy Bawa. Principal of the College advised the students to take inspiration from the events and activities conducted as part of the campaign. He lauded the tireless efforts of the NCORD Cell, NSS and NCC Units and said that the team had organized a wonderful event, and said that such campaign against drug abuse shall be the regular feature.
Govt Degree College Sidhra as a contributing step to increase public awareness of drug usage, its effects on people and communities and the importance of effective prevention and treatment, under the aegis of IQAC, banner of AKAM and Mission LiFE organised different activities to commemorate International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2023.
First activity organised was an awareness lecture on the theme “Karo Yog, Raho Nirog” delivered by the Principal of the College in which he emphasized how by practicing yoga one can live a stress free and healthy life. Yoga for the body and meditation for the mind can help one to get rid of any addiction.
NSS Unit of Maulana Azad Memorial College, Jammu, in collaboration with J&K Art, Culture and Languages and Bhartiya Kala Sangam, commemorated the Intl Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a powerful nukkad natak (street play) titled “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.”
The volunteers of the NSS Unit actively participated in the event, showcasing their enthusiasm and commitment towards spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the need for prevention. Dr Kuldeep Raina, a faculty member, extended his support and valuable time to make the event a success.
Principal Prof (Dr) GS Rakwal applauded the efforts of the volunteers for organizing such a impactful event that aimed to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with drug abuse. Dr Koushal Kiran Thakur, the NSS Programme Officer, played a pivotal role in coordinating the event.
National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of Government Degree College Ramgarh organized extension lecture on ‘International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’ under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav. The programme was organized under the supervision and leadership of Prof (Dr) Geetanjali Andotra, Principal of the College.
The Principal emphasized the need and importance of awareness programs, especially among the college students against the use of narcotics. She also spoke on the importance of awareness and how spirituality helps a person to get rid of bad habits and to avoid the use of drugs. The extension lecture commenced with the welcome address by Prof Seema Sharma, Head, Department of Education. Dr Hari Slathia, BAMS also spoke on the occasion.
The NSS Unit in collaboration with Red Ribbon Club, of the Govt Degree College Darhal organized an awareness campaign based on the theme “People first: Stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention” which means “stressing rehabilitation, rather than punishment and incarceration for minor drug offences” under the banner of G20 and Mission Life initiative.
More than 50 NSS volunteers of the college including faculty members were participated in the event with great zeal, enthusiasm and fervor. A skit was performed and a pledge was taken by NSS volunteers in order to aware the public about drug abuse. NSS volunteers of the college also look out a rally in the town for creating awareness. The event was organized under the guidance of Prof Mussaraf Hussain Shah, Principal of the College.
NSS Unit of GDC Thannamandi in collaboration with Red Ribbon Club of the College organized an event under the patronage of the Principal of the College Prof (Dr) Farooq Ahmed. A slogan writing competition on theme “People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention” was organized in which several NSS volunteers and students have participated. The main objective of the event was to raise awareness about the Drug abuse and illicit trafficking that continues to pose a significant threat to individuals, families and communities worldwide.
The event was organized by Prof Muhammad Shoket NSS Programme Officer and coordinated by Prof. Raheela Mushtaq Convener Red Ribbon Club.
Drug De-addiction & Rehabilitation Cell (DDRC), in collaboration of 2 J&K Girls Bn NCC of GDC, RS Pura organized a lecture on this year’s theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention”.
The event was organized under the banner of AKAM and Presidency of G-20 and patronage of Principal Prof Rajni Bhagat and supervision of Prof Balwan Singh, Convener, DDRC and Lt. Shaveta Chowdhary, ANO, Girls NCC Unit. Dr Chakraverti Mahajan, Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, University of Delhi was the resource person for today’s lecture. Dr Mahajan spoke extensively on Drug De-addiction and Mental Health relating to this year’s theme. He explained to students that how stigma related to drug de-addiction results in further degradation of mental health of addicted youth and that as a society, all should work together to prevent this alienation and bring them back to mainstream.
An awareness program on International Day against Drug Abuse was organised by J&K Police in collaboration with Shree Institute of Education. Sunil Kesar SDPO, Jammu North, Suneet Kumar Raina, Corporator of ward No 9, Sushil Sharma SHO Pacca Danga, and others were present on the occasion. Addressing the youngsters, Raina urged the youth to make a collective effort to carve out a drug-free state by encouraging drug addicts to abandon this vicious circle. He further said dependence on drugs creates havoc for the family and ruins everyone.
SDPO Sunil Kesar said it is the social responsibility of everyone to inform the police about the drug peddlers who create menace in the lives of people.
Bharatiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan (BLKSKS) launched three day campaign to mark `International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’ in close coordination with Directorate of Social Welfare Department Jammu and Kashmir. Sangam Tru Art Production musical play, ” Nashe Kola Bacho” to create awareness among the masses. V K Magotra, former Regional Director, Directorate of Field Publicity (I&B) was the chief guest on the occasion.
To mark the Anti-Drug Day, Viraj Kala Kendra, Jammu in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages presented two shows of Nukkad Natak ‘Nasha-Ek Abhishaap Hai’ at Miran Sahib and Simbal Camp. The Nukkad Natak was written and directed by Rajneesh Gupta and it was viewed by a large number of people.
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