Sports can play a transformative role in combating drug abuse: Sports Minister

Srinagar, Jun 10: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, Wednesday emphasised 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, as per a statement, was speaking at an awareness programmeorganised at International Delhi Public School (IDPS), Srinagar, under the theme “Say Yes to Sports, No to Drugs”, aimed at sensitising 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 organised under the aegis of the NashaMukt 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 NashaMukt 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 channelising 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 organisations and government agencies to effectively tackle the issue.