POONCH: In a significant step towards spreading awareness about the menace of drugs and fostering a drug-free society, an Anti-Drug Marathon was organized by the Department of School Education, Poonch, here today. The event was flagged off from the DC Office by Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal in the presence of District Education Planning Officer (DEPO) Mukhtar Manhas, Deputy CEO Mohd Latif Choudhary, students, teachers and local dignitaries.
Participants, including students and faculty, enthusiastically ran through the main roads of Poonch, spreading the message of staying away from drugs and leading a healthy lifestyle. The event culminated at the Sports Stadium where students took a solemn pledge to stay away from drugs and to educate their peers and communities about its harmful effects. Addressing the gathering, the DC lauded the efforts of the Department of School Education for organizing such a meaningful initiative. He urged the students to become ambassadors of change and to work collectively towards eradicating drug abuse from society.
District Education Planning Officer Mukhtar Manhas, in his address, highlighted the growing challenges posed by drug abuse among the youth and the need for sustained efforts to tackle this issue. “This marathon is not just a run but a movement to unite the community against the drug menace. We must inspire the younger generation to lead by example and adopt a lifestyle free from drugs,” he said.
Deputy CEO Mohammad Latif Choudhary commended the enthusiasm of the participants and the collaborative effort of teachers and students. He stated, “It is heartening to see the overwhelming support from students and educators for this cause. The Department of School Education will continue to focus on such initiatives that promote awareness and a positive lifestyle among the youth.”
