Reasi, May 8: A mega awareness programme was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan to strengthen efforts against drug abuse and promote a drug-free society in Reasi district.

Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment, Sheetal Nanda, who was the chief guest, expressed concern over the growing drug menace and called for sustained community participation to tackle the issue. She stressed that families, schools, civil society and government agencies must work together to build an effective prevention system.
Highlighting the role of women, she said Mahila Nigrani Samitis can play a key role in identifying vulnerable individuals, supporting affected families and guiding youth towards positive activities. She also urged parents to stay closely involved in their children’s lives and encourage healthy lifestyles.
Nanda appealed for greater awareness about mental health support and informed participants about the Tele MANAS helpline (14416), urging people facing addiction, stress or emotional distress to seek counselling assistance.
Deputy Commissioner Kumar Abhishek said the ongoing 100-day campaign under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan involves ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers and retired teachers as part of Mahila Nigrani Samitis to strengthen grassroots outreach. He urged citizens to report drug-related activities to the administration.
Senior officials, including Additional SP Iftekhar Ahmed and doctors from District Hospital Reasi, highlighted the rising threat of substance abuse and emphasized awareness, counselling and family support.
Participants also took a pledge to actively support efforts towards creating a drug-free and healthy society in Reasi.