SRINAGAR: An interactive session with recovered and recovering patients of substance abuse was held today at Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS-K) as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan. The event, co-hosted by the Directorate of Social Welfare, was attended by around 23 patients of substance abuse who have recovered from the same.

Welcoming the participants, Medical Superintendent, IMHANS-K, Dr Ajaz Baba lauded them for their courage and resolve in combating the affliction of drug addiction.  HOD, Psychiatry, Prof (Dr) Arshad Hussain highlighted the role of such interactions in reducing isolation and fostering hope among those struggling with addiction and drug dependence.

Nodal Officer, Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation, Prof (Dr) Yasir Hassan termed the recovered patients of Substance Abuse as ‘fellow combatants’ in the fight against drug addiction. Several patients shared their stories of struggle and success. One of the recovered patient related how after giving up drugs his relationship with his family had undergone a sea change and how  he had got his business back on track and gained back his lost respect.  He termed his successful recovery as “a journey back from darkness to light.” Another patient said that though the struggle wasn’t easy he had got his life back and was “happily married now and living a meaningful life.”

Some patients complained that societal attitudes towards former substance users are not very encouraging and they have to struggle with suspicion and distrust. The event which was co-ordinated by Dr Ajaz Suhaff, Medical Officer Oral Substitution Thearapy (OST)  and Sajad Ahmed, Sr. Social worker, IMHANS concluded with a shared resolve to combat the menace of drug addiction at individual as well as community levels.

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 👇