‘If We Can Do It, Others Too Can’: Mir Jaffer After PM’s Praise | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 130th episode of the monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, spotlighted a grassroots initiative from Sheikhgund village in the Shangus area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, praising the collective resolve of the community in tackling drug abuse and tobacco consumption.

In his address, PM Modi underlined the power of unity, saying that when the strength of families and society comes together, even the most difficult challenges can be overcome.

Citing Sheikhgund as a powerful example, the Prime Minister said the village had been grappling with a growing menace of drugs, tobacco, cigarettes and alcohol.

Mir Jaffer, who spearheaded the campaign, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for acknowledging the initiative, calling it a moment of pride for Sheikhgund and the entire Anantnag district. PM Modi said that Mir Jaffer was deeply disturbed by the worsening situation in his village, following which he brought everyone together.

He said Jaffer later motivated the community, and after sustained awareness campaigns, shops stopped selling tobacco products in the village last year.

“Recognition by the Prime Minister is definitely a morale booster, and it has strengthened our resolve and motivated us to continue working harder,” Jaffer said.

Mir said the idea of launching the campaign took shape after he witnessed an alarming rise in drug abuse among youngsters and cancer cases among elders, linked to tobacco consumption.

“I also witnessed many elderly people suffering from cancer because of tobacco use. Then I decided to act,” he said. “After creating awareness among the people about the harmful effects of smoking, chewing tobacco and drug abuse, grocery store owners pledged to stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products, and villagers committed to quitting smoking.”

Smoking often acts as a gateway to more dangerous forms of substance abuse, making intervention critical, Jaffer said, adding that their efforts have yielded encouraging results. “If we can do it, others too can.”

He urged people, especially the youth, to use their knowledge positively and stay away from such menaces. “Whenever you start doing good things, you will definitely face criticism, but that does not mean you should stop speaking the truth,” Jaffer said, adding that most people supported him. (KNO)