BANDIPORA, AUGUST 10: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, today inaugurated a two-day Integrated Communication and Outreach Programme (ICOP) on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), organised by the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, in collaboration with District Administration Bandipora at Government Higher Secondary School, Gadakhud, Sumbal.
The programme aims to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and promote prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and community participation in the fight against drug abuse.
In her address, the Deputy Commissioner urged young people to channelise their energy into education, sports, creativity and other constructive pursuits. Emphasising the importance of individual determination, she said that strong willpower, supported by family and community, can help individuals resist addiction and overcome even difficult challenges. She stressed that the fight against drugs requires not only effective enforcement but also awareness, prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and collective social responsibility. She called upon parents, teachers, community leaders and youth to work together towards creating a safe and healthy environment for the younger generation.
The inaugural session witnessed enthusiastic participation of students, teachers, parents, officials and members of the local community. Resource persons from the Health, Social Welfare, School Education, Police and District Administration sensitised participants about the causes and consequences of substance abuse, prevention, treatment, counselling and rehabilitation.
The session also covered the role of law enforcement in curbing drug trafficking, including the modus operandi and emerging trends in the illegal drug trade, along with relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Participants were sensitised about the health consequences of substance abuse, the importance of timely intervention, professional counselling and rehabilitation, as well as the Government of India’s Tele-MANAS initiative and its toll-free helpline 14416. The support mechanisms and social welfare interventions available for individuals and families affected by substance abuse were also highlighted, with speakers stressing the importance of collective efforts to keep young people away from drugs.
Chief Education Officer, Bandipora, Mohammad Rafiq Mir, highlighted the importance of education, guidance and a supportive environment in shaping the future of young people.
Earlier, welcoming the participants, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Srinagar, highlighted the mandate of CBC in taking information on flagship initiatives and welfare programmes of the Government of India to the grassroots.
Field Publicity Officer, CBC Anantnag said the campaign seeks to educate, inspire and empower people, particularly the youth, to become ambassadors of a drug-free society.
As part of CBC’s integrated communication strategy, the programme featured a photo exhibition on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan aimed at creating visual awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of prevention and rehabilitation. Live cultural performances by empanelled cultural troupes further conveyed the message of de-addiction and healthy living through folk media.
Students participated enthusiastically in speech and painting competitions, expressing their views and creativity on the theme of a drug-free society. An open quiz competition was also organised to enhance awareness and encourage interactive learning among participants.
In conclusion, the participants administered a pledge to stay away from drugs, discourage drug trafficking and contribute actively towards building a Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir and a Drug-Free India.
