Handwara hosts major anti-drug awareness drive under Nasha Mukt Abhiyan

Handwara: A large-scale awareness programme under the Nasha Mukt Kashmir Abhiyan was organised at Langate on Wednesday through the joint efforts of the District Administration Kupwara, Education Department, District Police, and Youth Civil Society Kashmir.

Senior district officials attended the event, including the District Development Commissioner Kupwara, SSP Handwara, ADC Handwara, ASP Handwara, Deputy Chief Education Officer Handwara, District Education Planning Officer Kupwara, and Tehsildar Langate. Also present were principals of various degree colleges and higher secondary schools, Zonal Education Officer and Zonal Education Planning Officer Langate, representatives of civil society, traders’ federations of Langate and Handwara, Pharmacist Association Handwara, members of the media led by President Aatif Qayoom, and local religious leaders.

The programme saw participation of over 5,000 students from schools and colleges across Zone Langate and adjoining areas, reflecting a broad-based response to the anti-drug campaign.

Speakers highlighted the rising threat of substance abuse and called for coordinated action at the societal level. They stressed the role of awareness, education, and sustained public engagement, while underlining the importance of youth participation in preventive efforts.

The event featured pledge-taking ceremonies and awareness sessions aimed at sensitising participants to the risks associated with drug abuse and encouraging responsible conduct.

As part of the programme, tug-of-war competitions were organised among teams from Government Medical College Handwara, GDC Handwara, traders’ federations of Langate and Handwara, and student groups from Langate and Qaziabad. Teams from Government Medical College Handwara, Traders Federation Langate, and Langate students secured top positions in their respective categories.

A painting competition was also held on the sidelines, with students from government and private institutions presenting creative works on themes related to drug awareness. The entries were appreciated by officials and guests.

The District Administration Kupwara reiterated its commitment to expanding such initiatives across the district and called for continued cooperation from all sections to address the issue and safeguard the youth.