Under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, Health Centre and Department of Students Welfare (DSW), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Srinagar, organised an awareness programme on the theme "Addiction free India" for the students and the staff at varsity’s Tulmulla campus here Thursday.

Addressing the participants, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, asked the youth to stay away from the menace of drug abuse. “In recent years, substance abuse has emerged as a pressing issue, posing significant challenges to the well-being and prosperity of our country, which has the largest youth population. The youth, being the most vulnerable, are disproportionately affected by this scourge. However, a disciplined lifestyle will be extremely helpful in combating the growing drug menace,” CUKashmir Vice-Chancellor, said. He added that the youth should also possess the passion, energy, and idealism to drive positive change and create a drug-free society.

In his speech, Superintendent of Police, Mr. Ghulam Hassan, said, the teachings and guidance of religious scholars and elders of the society, can inspire individuals to lead virtuous lives and steer clear of destructive behaviors such as substance abuse. “By emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility, self-discipline, and compassion, religious leaders play a crucial role in preventing drug abuse and supporting those affected by addiction,” he added.

IMHANS Registrar, Dr. Shazia Kouser and Consultant, Dr. Sajid Mohammad, in their respective presentations, discussed different forms of drug and substance abuses and shared the data about the increasing number of cases, received by IMHANS, everyday, from across the Kashmir division.

“Equipping young people with accurate information about the risks and consequences of drug abuse through awareness programmes empower them to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure,” they added.

Earlier, Dean DSW, Dr. Irfan Aalam, said the objective of organising the programme is to educate the students about the adverse effects of drug abuse. He said the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, spearheaded by the Government of India, is a nationwide campaign designed to address the challenges posed by drug and alcohol abuse.

Asst Prof. Deptt of Law, Dr. Mudasir Ahmad Bhat conducted the proceedings and medical officer Dr. Sheeba proposed the vote of thanks. Medical Attendant, Mr. Javid Ali, coordinated the event.