BANDIPORA: Continuing the district-wide outreach under the 100-Day Mission Mode campaign of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Bandipora on Tuesday organised a “Dosti Discussion” programme at Government Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Dawar, Gurez, aimed at raising awareness and fostering dialogue on drug abuse prevention.

The programme, held at the BHSS Dawar auditorium, commenced with the National Anthem and was attended by PO ICDS, ACP, SDM Gurez, Principal GDC Gurez, Executive Engineers, Tehsildar Gurez, BDO Gurez, ZEOs, Principals of various schools, BMO, KVK Incharge, SHO, TSO, besides senior citizens, AWWs, ASHA workers and a large number of students.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner, Indu Kanwal Chib observed that parents often ignore or dismiss concerns about their children’s behaviour, which delays timely intervention. She reiterated that the district administration is actively conducting awareness campaigns in collaboration with all stakeholders, including religious leaders.

Emphasising the importance of choosing the right peer group, she advised students to remain vigilant against any attempts to lure them into substance abuse and encouraged open communication within families and communities.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister’s message on drug abuse was presented, noting that over 11 crore people have joined the movement against substance abuse, and emphasising the need to protect future generations while ensuring rehabilitation of addicts. A video clip on drug awareness was also screened.

SDM Gurez delivered a detailed introduction under the theme of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, stating that drug abuse silently enters lives and destroys individuals and families. He identified key causes including negative peer influence, mental stress, unemployment, and domestic issues, and stressed collective responsibility in addressing the problem.

Shaukat Ali, Lecturer at BHSS Dawar, highlighted the importance of such initiatives and termed the presence of the DC, as inspiring for the youth and reflective of the administration’s commitment towards societal welfare.

The programme featured a cultural performance by students of BHSS Dawar, which was widely appreciated. Speakers underscored the importance of engaging youth in cultural and sports activities to channel their energy in a positive direction.

Dr. Imtiyaz Ahmad, Senior Consultant at SDH Dawar, spoke on the ill effects of drug addiction, highlighting how it damages the nervous system and weakens the fabric of society. He stressed that keeping youth away from drugs is essential for building a strong nation and called for awareness, prevention, and strong willpower to combat addiction.

A panel discussion under the “Dosti Discussion” series was held with students of classes 10th, 11th, and 12th, who actively engaged with the Deputy Commissioner. Students shared insightful observations and suggestions, including banning the sale of tobacco products near schools, organising large-scale awareness campaigns involving imams, chowkidars, lumberdars, and senior citizens, and maintaining vigilance to keep Gurez drug-free. Students also emphasised the importance of supporting administration and police by sharing information about drug peddlers while ensuring confidentiality. The programme concluded with an interactive session between the audience and the Deputy Commissioner.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇