Awareness sessions, cultural events under IEC Campaign on Drug Abuse at Shopian

SHOPIAN : As part of ongoing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign under the UT-wide flagship initiative Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Shopian, Cultural Unit and Education Department along with the coordination of District Administration today organised a mega awareness programme.
The programme held at Ranjoor Memorial GHSS School, Keegam witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials of health, DLSA, education, social welfare, department of Ayush and school children.
During the event, a panel of experts and resource persons from multiple departments conducted interactive sessions, sensitising attendees about the alarming consequences of drug abuse.
Medical professionals from the health department highlighted the root causes of addiction, including depression, curiosity, family trauma and feelings of inferiority. They stressed the importance of timely intervention, emotional support and rehabilitation in combating the crisis.
Resource persons from DLSA provided detailed insights into the district’s strategic action plan to curb drug addiction.
One of the major highlights of the event was a dramatic and artistic performance sponsored by the Cultural Unit of DIPR, J&K and DIPR Shopian. The creative skit, themed on drug abuse prevention, powerfully portrayed the devastating impact of addiction on families and communities. The performance called upon society to stand united and take collective responsibility to eliminate the menace from its roots.
It was informed that 98 awareness programmes are being scheduled at the Panchayat level under the IEC Campaign, 61 of which have already been conducted. Additionally, 17 programmes planned for municipal areas have been conducted. To extend this initiative to students, 26 programmes have been scheduled in educational institutions.
During the programme, speakers stressed making use of the services available at the Addiction Treatment Facility operating in the district and to encourage affected individuals to seek professional help without stigma.
Speakers at the events reiterated the need for a community-driven approach to effectively tackle the growing challenge of substance abuse. Through discussions, interactive sessions and expert talks, participants were encouraged to act as agents of change within their localities.
The programme was attended by DDC member Raja Waheed, District Nodal Officer (AYUSH), Deputy LADC, representatives of the DLSA, lecturers and teachers from Ranjoor Memorial Government Higher Secondary Schools, Keegam, and Narapora.