Srinagar, July 21 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday called for strengthening the anti-drug movement in Jammu and Kashmir by integrating awareness into the education system, saying that just as schools, colleges begin the day with “Vande Mataram” and the National Anthem, students should also be regularly educated about the dangers of drug abuse.
Addressing the valedictory function of the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan at SKICC Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor, as per news agency JKNS, referred to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent announcement that India aims to eliminate the drug trade within the next three years, similar to the country’s successful campaign against Naxalism.
LG Sinha said the responsibility of departments dealing with education, sports, culture and youth affairs has increased significantly in the fight against drug abuse. He stressed that anti-drug awareness should become a regular feature in schools and colleges through a structured calendar prepared by the School Education and Higher Education Departments.
“Just as schools observe Vande Mataram and the National Anthem, students should also be made aware of the harmful effects of drugs every day,” he said, emphasising the need for sustained awareness rather than one-time campaigns.
The Lieutenant Governor also called upon the Sports Department to expand sporting activities and the Culture Department to organise more programmes to positively engage youth, saying such initiatives would help steer young people away from substance abuse.
He stressed that the campaign cannot succeed through a government-only approach and advocated a whole-of-society approach, involving teachers, doctors, religious leaders, community elders, youth clubs, women’s groups and mothers in creating a drug-free society.
Addressing the youth directly, LG Sinha said they are the future of Jammu and Kashmir and one of India’s greatest strengths. He urged them not to allow drugs to destroy their dreams and called upon them to become active partners in building a prosperous, healthy and drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)
