PULWAMA, APRIL 19: As part of its intensified Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign under the UT-wide flagship initiative Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Pulwama in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, today organised a mega awareness programme at Town Hall Pulwama.
This event marked one of the five major programmes conducted today across various municipal areas of the district.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials of Social Welfare, Health, Urban Local Bodies and other departments, along with representatives from Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), members of civil society, social workers and the general public.
During the event, a panel of experts and resource persons from multiple departments conducted interactive sessions, sensitizing attendees about the alarming consequences of drug abuse.
Medical professionals from the Health Department highlighted the root causes of addiction, including depression, peer pressure, curiosity, family trauma and feelings of inferiority. They stressed the importance of timely intervention, emotional support and rehabilitation in combating the crisis.
Resource persons from the Social Welfare Department provided detailed insights into the district’s strategic action plan to curb drug addiction.
One of the major highlights of the event was a cultural performance presented by the Department of Information & Public Relations, J&K. The creative skit, themed on drug abuse prevention, powerfully portrayed the devastating impact of addiction on families and communities. The performance called upon society to stand united and take collective responsibility to eliminate the menace from its roots.
It was informed that 346 awareness programmes have been scheduled at the Panchayat level, 88 of which have already been conducted. Additionally, 69 programmes have been planned in municipal areas, with 20 completed so far. To extend this initiative to students, 179 programmes have been scheduled in educational institutions.
During the session, public was urged to make use of the services available at various Drug De-Addiction Centres operating in the district and to encourage affected individuals to seek professional help without stigma.
Speakers at the events reiterated the need for a community-driven approach to effectively tackle the growing challenge of substance abuse. Through discussions, interactive sessions and expert talks, participants were encouraged to act as agents of change within their localities.
