Holistic, collective approach must to eradicate drug abuse menace: DC Budgam

Budgam, Feb 10: The District Administration Budgam in collaboration with Information and PR department Budgam Tuesday organised a day-long district-level awareness programme under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) at the Indoor Sports Stadium, Budgam.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-din Bhat who attended the programme as the Chief Guest, delivered a comprehensive address highlighting the serious physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences of substance abuse on individuals, families, and society at large.
It was emphasised by the DC that drug addiction not only destroys individual lives but also weakens the social fabric, thereby posing a grave challenge to the overall development and well-being of the community.
While addressing the gathering, it was stressed that the menace of drug abuse cannot be tackled by enforcement agencies alone and that a holistic and collective approach is required.
The DC underlined that coordinated efforts of parents, teachers, educational institutions, community and religious leaders, civil society organisations, healthcare professionals, and youth groups are essential for effectively preventing and combating drug addiction.
The DC further said that early awareness, timely intervention, counselling, and rehabilitation are key components in addressing the issue in a sustainable manner. He exhorted the youth to remain vigilant, stay away from drugs, and channel their energy towards constructive and positive pursuits such as sports, education, skill development, and community service. He reiterated that a drug-free youth is the foundation of a strong, progressive, and prosperous society.
The DC also highlighted the importance of strengthening de-addiction and rehabilitation services and ensuring that affected individuals are provided with proper medical, psychological, and social support to facilitate their reintegration into society.
During the programme, a series of expert talks were delivered by medical professional Dr. Shahid and subject expert DSWO Budgam wherein participants were sensitised about the health hazards of drug abuse, signs and symptoms of addiction, and available treatment and counselling mechanisms.
A short awareness film on the ill effects of substance abuse was also screened, followed by cultural performances and a skit, which effectively conveyed strong messages against drug addiction in an engaging manner.
A pledge taking ceremony under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was also organised, wherein DC budgam administered “NASHA MUKT BHARAT PLEDGE “to the participants and the participants reaffirmed their commitment to remain drug-free and to actively contribute towards spreading awareness against drug abuse in their respective communities.
It was reiterated during the event that the District Administration Budgam remains committed to intensifying awareness campaigns, strengthening inter-departmental coordination, and enhancing support systems for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation in order to achieve the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the district.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks, followed by the distribution of certificates and awards to participants and contributors in recognition of their efforts towards promoting a drug-free society.
The programme witnessed the presence and active participation of several senior officers and stakeholders, including Programme Officer ICDS, Samar Naik; Joint Director Planning, Budgam, Javaid Ahmad Najar; Chief Education Officer, Budgam; District Informatics Officer, Budgam; District Social Welfare Officer, Budgam; Chief Horticulture Officer, Budgam; Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Budgam; representatives from the Drug De-Addiction Centre, Budgam; doctors from ATF; besides youth, students, civil society members, and media representatives.