AWANTIPORA: Chairing a multi-stakeholder meeting on substance abuse, Professor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, emphasized that the youth is our most valuable resource and warned that their vulnerability to substance abuse could lead to catastrophic consequences for society. He stated that a comprehensive strategy addressing substance abuse—focusing on prevention, detection, and rehabilitation—is urgently needed. Prof. Romshoo stressed the importance of coordination and participation from all sectors of society, asserting that everyone, including religious leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, community leaders, and influencers, has a vital role to play.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Abdul Majid (HoD Psychiatry), Dr. M. Muzaffar (Clinical Psychologist), Mr. Khan Ansur (NIMHANS Bangalore), and Mr. Mir Zubair (Cause NGO), along with representatives from the Human Welfare Voluntary Organization, the Addiction Treatment Facility in Pulwama, the J&K AIDS Control Society, and concerned faculty from IUST.
Participants expressed deep concerns regarding the issue of substance abuse among youth, stressing that every citizen must play an active role against this menace rather than turning a blind eye, as it affects us all directly or indirectly. They highlighted evidence linking substance abuse to increased crime rates, various diseases—including AIDS and hepatitis—higher dropout rates, and impaired learning abilities among young people. The participants underscored the need for extensive awareness campaigns in educational institutions and the establishment of community-run rehabilitation centres to bolster government efforts in tackling this crisis.
Prof. Romshoo assured attendees that IUST will develop specific skill programs for abuse victims to help them recover from this affliction and reintegrate them productively into society. Notably, IUST has already established a Centre for Mental Health and Well-being to address the needs of its student community, conducting regular sessions to raise awareness about substance abuse and promote mental wellness for a healthy society.
