BANDIPORA, APRIL 20: Continuing the district-wide outreach under the 100-Day Mission Mode campaign of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Bandipora on Monday organised the second edition of the “Dosti Discussion” series at High School Bagh, aimed at addressing the menace of drug abuse through open dialogue and community participation.
The programme saw active participation from students and teachers. The Principal of High School Bagh welcomed the Deputy Commissioner and participants, underlining the importance of such engagements in shaping a drug-free future.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, held a candid and thought-provoking interaction, during which several students came forward with their observations and suggestions.
Expressing concern, the DC noted that the Bagh area has witnessed a high incidence of drug abuse, including reported fatalities, and termed the situation deeply alarming. She observed that even young students being aware of drug prevalence in their surroundings reflects the gravity of the issue, and that such exposure at an early age calls for urgent intervention.
Stressing the need for honesty, the DC remarked that many parents tend to ignore or conceal their children’s involvement in substance abuse, only to regret it later. She urged society to first acknowledge the existence of the problem in order to effectively address it.
Cautioning students on the tactics of drug peddlers, the DC said youngsters are often deliberately targeted and lured into addiction, which in turn can draw them into various forms of crime. At the same time, she clarified that drug addicts must be treated as patients requiring care and rehabilitation, not as criminals.
Students put forth several practical suggestions, including empowering class monitors to check school bags, maintaining vigilance on outsiders and nearby shopkeepers, and organising more awareness programmes in the main town areas.
Taking note of the inputs, the DC directed the Head of Institution (HOI) to implement a roster for NCC candidates and to ensure that class monitors are rotated every fortnight. She also instructed police authorities to maintain strict vigilance in and around school premises, and emphasised that the Head of Institution must serve as a role model for students.
Teachers participating in the discussion highlighted the importance of addressing root causes such as financial stress, domestic issues, and career-related pressures.
The DC shared her contact number (7006235244), encouraging students and citizens to report concerns, seek help, or offer suggestions on drug-related issues.
Underlining healthy alternatives to manage stress, she encouraged students to engage in sports, chess, reading, writing, gardening, painting, yoga, and emerging fields such as technology and artificial intelligence. She noted that expressing emotions — whether through conversation or even crying — can play an important role in relieving stress
The programme concluded with a shared commitment from all stakeholders to work collectively towards a drug-free society, with strengthened coordination between schools, parents, and enforcement agencies.
The “Dosti Discussion” series continues to be a key initiative of the District Administration Bandipora, aimed at reaching every school across the district and fostering a culture of awareness, responsibility, and resilience among the youth.
