- Awareness sessions, cultural events held to combat drug menace
GANDERBAL: In continuation of its intensified Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns under the UT-wide Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, the District Administration Ganderbal, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, today organized a mega awareness programme at Panchayat Haran Tulbagh.
The event witnessed active participation from officials of various departments including Social Welfare, Health, and Police, alongside representatives of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), civil society members, social workers, and the general public.
A major highlight of the programme was a thought-provoking cultural performance by the Cultural Wing of DIPR, J&K, featuring a skit centered on drug abuse prevention. The performance effectively depicted the destructive effects of addiction on families and society, while calling for united community action to uproot this social evil.
The event also featured interactive awareness sessions conducted by a panel of experts and resource persons from different departments. Medical professionals from the Health Department sensitized the gathering about the root causes of addiction, including depression, peer pressure, curiosity, family trauma, and feelings of inferiority. They underlined the significance of timely intervention, emotional support, and rehabilitation in addressing substance abuse.
Speakers during the programme stressed the need for a community-driven, collective approach to effectively tackle the rising challenge of drug addiction. Participants were motivated to become active change-makers and advocates for a drug-free society within their own communities.