POONCH, FEBRUARY 12: Reinforcing its commitment towards a drug-free society, the Department of Social Welfare, Poonch, organized a ‘Nasha Mukt Khel Mela’ at Government Higher Secondary School, Chandak under the aegis of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a pledge for a Nasha Mukt (drug-free) society, wherein participants and attendees collectively resolved to combat substance abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Ashok Kumar Sharma inaugurated the programme by releasing white pigeons to signify peace and the collective pledge to eradicate substance abuse. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner described sports as a powerful antidote to social evils and emphasized the need to channelize youth energy into constructive activities. He urged participants to adopt the message “Say Yes to Life, No to Drugs” and act as ambassadors of change within their communities.
Over 150 athletes participated in various games including Volleyball, Kabaddi, Shot Put and Tug of War. The event witnessed participation and competition, with a large number of locals from Chandak and surrounding areas attending to cheer the participants.
District Social Welfare Officer Poonch Khalil A Banday welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the department’s initiatives aimed at engaging youth in meaningful activities to combat drug abuse.
The Chief Education Officer Poonch, Executive Engineer PDD, District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO), Tehsildar Haveli, District Information Officer Poonch, Principal Government Higher Secondary School Chandak, senior Police officers and other civil and administrative officers were present on the occasion.
Senior Lecturer Nazarat Fareed Khan conducted the proceedings of the programme. The staff of the Social Welfare Department and Youth Services & Sports Department coordinated the event.
The programme concluded with a prize distribution ceremony where Additional Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik was the Chief Guest. He distributed trophies among the winning teams, certificates to referees and prizes to the participants. Both the Deputy Commissioner and the Additional Deputy Commissioner appreciated the Social Welfare Department for organising the mela to promote a healthy and drug-free society.
