Sports play transformative role in combating drug abuse among youth: Satish Sharma

Srinagar, Jun 10: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, Wednesday emphasized the vital role of sports and physical activities in steering young people away from the menace of drug abuse and towards a healthier, disciplined and productive future.
The Minister was speaking at an awareness programme organized at International Delhi Public School (IDPS), Srinagar, under the theme “Say Yes to Sports, No to Drugs”. The event was aimed at sensitizing the students and youth about the harmful consequences of substance abuse and promoting sports as a powerful tool for character building, fitness and social empowerment.
The programme was organized under the aegis of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, a nationwide initiative aimed at creating awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and mobilizing communities, educational institutions and youth towards building a drug-free society. The event brought together students, educators, policymakers and sports administrators to reinforce the message that sports and healthy lifestyles are among the most effective tools in preventing drug abuse among young people.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma lauded the initiative taken by the school administration and highlighted that sports not only contribute to physical fitness but also instill discipline, determination, teamwork and resilience among young people. He observed that engaging youth in constructive activities such as sports is one of the most effective ways to counter the growing challenge of drug addiction.
Satish Sharma said that the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan can only be achieved through sustained public participation, awareness generation and positive youth engagement. He stressed that sports provide an ideal platform for channelizing the energy of young people towards constructive pursuits and away from the dangers of drug addiction.
The Minister said that the Government is committed to creating a vibrant sporting ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir by strengthening sports infrastructure, expanding opportunities for participation and nurturing sporting talent from the grassroots level. He stressed that every educational institution has a crucial role to play in shaping responsible citizens and fostering awareness against social evils such as drug abuse.
“Drug addiction poses a serious threat to society, particularly to our younger generation. We must collectively work to create awareness, provide guidance and encourage healthy lifestyles. Sports offer a positive direction, helping youth channel their energy towards achievement, excellence and nation-building,” the Minister said.
Satish Sharma urged students to become ambassadors of the anti-drug campaign and inspire their peers to adopt healthy habits. He called for a sustained and collaborative approach involving schools, parents, civil society organizations and government agencies to effectively tackle the issue.
The programme was also attended by MLA Hazratbal Salman Sagar, who underscored the urgent need for effective and coordinated measures to curb the growing menace of drug abuse. He emphasized that awareness campaigns, community participation and proactive engagement of youth are essential to protect future generations from the harmful effects of narcotics and substance abuse.
Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, spoke about the various initiatives being undertaken by the department to promote sports and youth engagement across Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that sports have emerged as a powerful platform for empowering youth, fostering leadership qualities and building a drug-free society. He also stressed the importance of integrating awareness programmes with sports activities to maximize outreach and impact.
Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, highlighted the efforts of the Sports Council in expanding sporting opportunities and encouraging greater participation of youth, particularly at the grassroots level. She emphasized that sports can serve as a catalyst for positive social change and play a significant role in keeping young people away from harmful influences.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, also addressed the gathering and called upon students to make informed life choices, stay away from drugs and contribute towards building a healthy and progressive society.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from Members of Chamber of Industries represented by their President Tariq Bedaba, Chairman IDPS Shoukat Choudhary, Babur Choudhary, students, teachers, sports enthusiasts and members of civil society. Various awareness materials and presentations highlighting the ill effects of drug abuse and the benefits of sports were showcased during the programme.