ACS Tourism visits Budgam; flags off ‘Run for Nasha Mukt JK’, participates in plantation drive

BUDGAM : The district administration Budgam today organized a comprehensive programme under the 100 day Jammu and Kashmir Nasha Mukht Abhiyan at Sheikh-ul-Alam Degree College, Budgam, aimed at strengthening the public awareness and collective action against drug abuse.
The programme was graced by Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Tourism, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, who is also the district mentor for Budgam.
The event commenced with the flag-off of the “Run for Nasha Mukt JK”, symbolizing a united pledge towards a drug-free society. This was followed by a plantation drive, reinforcing the message of sustainable and healthy living.
A signature campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation of the students and stakeholders, highlighting community commitment to the cause.
In his keynote address, Dr. Verma lauded the district administration and participating institutions for their proactive role in implementing the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan.
The ACS stressed the need for sustained awareness campaigns, community participation and institutional accountability in curbing the drug abuse. He directed all the departments to adopt a mission-mode approach, ensure regular outreach in educational institutions and strengthen the counseling and rehabilitation mechanisms. He further emphasized the importance of youth engagement through sports, culture and skill-based initiatives to channel their energies positively.
Dr. Verma also underscored the need for inter-departmental coordination, strict enforcement against drug peddling and enhanced vigilance at vulnerable points. He called for leveraging local leadership, including Panchayati Raj Institutions and civil society, to amplify the impact of the campaign.
Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan in his remarks, reiterated the district administration’s commitment towards making Budgam a drug-free district through coordinated efforts. He highlighted that a multi-pronged strategy involving awareness, enforcement and rehabilitation is being actively pursued.
Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam Hariprasad KK and Principal Degree collage Dr .Amin also spoke on the occasion.
The programme concluded with the administration of a pledge against drug abuse by the chief guest, followed by a vote of thanks.
Others present were PO ICDS, CHO, district officers, students, NSS volunteers, NCC cadets and local citizens.