Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha deserves a big applause for launching the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir campaign, emphasizing strict action against those involved in drug smuggling. He warned that individuals harming the future of youth won’t be spared, announcing measures like cancellation of passports and Aadhaar cards, and attachment of properties of offenders. This sends a strong message that the administration is committed to tackling the drug menace. The Nasha Mukt campaign aims to create awareness about substance abuse dangers and promote a drug-free lifestyle, especially among youth.
Jammu and Kashmir faces a significant issue, with over 13 lakh adults using addictive substances. Opioids are the most prevalent category, followed by alcohol, cannabis, and sedatives. Intravenous heroin use is rising, with risks of Hepatitis B, C, and HIV transmission. Nearly 95-98% of treatment-seeking patients are opioid-dependent, particularly heroin. The government has launched initiatives like Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, focusing on awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation. Over 1.68 lakh minors struggle with substance abuse, with 95,000 using opioids. The campaign involves public participation, awareness drives, and community engagement. Schools, colleges, and local organizations are coming forward to join the movement. As part of the campaign, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, SF Hamid, flagged off a padyatra spreading awareness against drug abuse, with locals, students, and officials participating. The administration is working to engage the community and promote a drug-free Baramulla. Similar initiatives are happening across the region, with people taking pledges to stay drug-free and supporting those struggling with addiction.
The key strategies include awareness and sensitization, youth engagement, community participation, and rehabilitation support. The impact is already visible, with increased awareness about substance abuse dangers and growing community participation in anti-drug initiatives. Drugs affect the brain’s communication system, disturbing nerve cell function. Heroin and marijuana mimic natural chemical messengers, overstimulating the brain’s reward circuit. Addiction can develop at any age, but early users are at higher risk. Teenagers are more prone due to brain development. Governments, families, schools, and communities must work together to counter drug trafficking and abuse. Sinha emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is at a critical juncture, with attempts to push youth into addiction. The campaign provides support for those struggling, aiming to make Jammu and Kashmir healthier and happier.
The campaign’s success depends on collective efforts. As Sinha said, it doesn’t belong to any one individual – it’s about the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth. With continued awareness, support, and strict action, the region can overcome the drug menace. The administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the campaign’s success. From organizing rallies and seminars to providing rehabilitation support, every effort is being made to create a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are responding positively, with many coming forward to join the movement. It’s a collective effort, and with continued support, the region can overcome the drug menace. The Nasha Mukt campaign is a step in the right direction, and with sustained efforts, Jammu and Kashmir can become a healthier and happier place.
(The author is a freelancer and can be reached at [email protected])
