Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: Central University of Kashmir, JK Police collaborate to organise debate competition

GANDERBAL: To provide a platform for students to critically analyse the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to drug addiction and to strengthen prevention measures within the community, Directorate of Students Welfare (DSW) Central University of Kashmir CUKashmir) in association with the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JK) Department organised a debate competition on “Drug-Free India for a Viksit Bharat: A Collective Responsibility Under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” at Varsity’s Tulmulla Campus here Wednesday.

Addressing the participants, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, in his presidential address, underscored the need to combat the growing menace of substance abuse. “Substance abuse is not just an individual problem, but a societal challenge that requires collective action. Through this debate competition, we aim to engage young minds in meaningful dialogue and encourage them to be part of the solution. The university remains committed to creating a safe and drug-free campus,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said.

He said the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), is a flagship initiative aimed at eradicating drug abuse from the country. “This nationwide campaign focuses on awareness, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation to create a healthier and more productive society,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said. He said the progress, growth and development of the country depends on the youth and the Abhiyan is a commendable initiative that reflects India’s commitment in combating substance abuse among the younger generation. He said the CUKashmir is committed to create socially responsible and knowledgeable individuals, having leadership skills, who will play a pivotal role against the prevalent drug abuse menace.

Addressing the gathering, Senior Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, Mr. Ragav S, described the youngsters as the torch bearers of the nation and highlighted the need of channelizing their energy into positive things. About the menace of substance abuse, he said “The fight against drug abuse requires collaboration between law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and the community. Such initiatives help us reach the youth effectively and instill in them a sense of responsibility towards a drug-free society,” he further said. SSP Ganderbal urged the students to immediately inform the police about the drug peddlers so that they can be taken to task. He further added that various measures and steps are afoot to curb the supply and distribution of narcotics.

Dean School of Legal Studies, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, Dean School of Business Studies, Prof Fayaz Ahmad Nikka, Dean School of Education, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, Additional SP, Ganderbal, Mr. Parvaiz Ahmad were the adjuricators.

Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, in his address, said, the country envisions becoming a developed nation by 2047, Viksit Bharat, and aims for economic prosperity, technological advancements, social inclusivity, and a healthier society. “However, one of the significant challenges to this vision is the rising menace of drug abuse, which threatens national development by weakening the youth, who are the backbone of progress. It leads to health issues, decreased productivity, and an increase in crime rates,” he said. Prof. Shahid added that to counter this challenge, a multi-faceted approach is needed. “Strict law enforcement, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation programmes must go hand in hand. The government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is a crucial step in this direction,” he further said.

Earlier, Mental Health Counsellor, JK Police, Ms Tabinda Bhat, in her detailed presentation gave an overview about the rising substance abuse in Kashmir. She said the rehabilitation centre established by the police is receiving an increasing number of cases, wherein the youth have been found to use heroin. “The number of HCV and HIV cases have also increased as the youngsters are using a single syringe to administer the drug, which is posing another health challenge,” Ms Tabinda added.

In his welcome address, Dean DSW, Prof. Irfan Alam, said, the objective of organising such programmes is to sensitise the students about the growing menace of drug abuse and their role and responsibility to inform the law enforcement agencies about the same. He asked the students to educate the masses about the dangers of substance abuse.

DSP, Mr. Nazir Ahmad and SHO Kheer Bhawani, Mr. Khalid Sultan were also present. In the competition, Mr. Peerzada Latief Ahmad, from the deptt of Religious Studies bagged the first cash prize of Rs 11,000 while as Mr Zaid from deptt of Tourism and Mr. Nazakat from deptt of Law shared the second cash prize of Rs 8000. The third case prize of Rs 6,000 was shared by Ms Maliha from the deptt of Zoology and Ahmad Mujtaba from the deptt of Law. Sr Asst Prof. Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal conducted the programme proceedings while as Asst Prof. Dr. Reehana Shawl proposed the vote of thanks.