IRCS organizes Drug De-addiction Awareness Programme at GDC Uri

BARAMULLA : The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with Government Degree College (GDC) Uri, today organized a Drug De-addiction Awareness Programme under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan at the college auditorium to create awareness among students about the harmful effects of drug abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem, followed by the screening of a special message from Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, emphasizing the collective responsibility of society in eradicating the menace of drug abuse. An awareness documentary on drug abuse, prepared by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Baramulla, was also screened to educate participants about the devastating impact of substance abuse and the importance of prevention and rehabilitation.
The programme was presided over by General Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society, Jammu & Kashmir, Shubhankar Pratyush Pathak, who, in his address, stressed that drug addiction is a serious social challenge that can only be tackled through coordinated efforts of educational institutions, families, civil society and government agencies. He urged the youth to stay away from drugs and become ambassadors of the anti-drug movement in their communities.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri, Prince Kumar, in his address, called upon students to remain focused on education, discipline and positive life values. He urged the youth to channelize their energy towards nation-building and contribute actively towards realizing the vision of a drug-free Jammu & Kashmir. Appreciating the initiative of the Indian Red Cross Society and GDC Uri, he emphasized that sustained awareness, community participation and timely intervention are key to effectively combating drug abuse.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal, Government Degree College Uri, Prof. Abdul Majeed Chalkoo, highlighted the crucial role of educational institutions in shaping responsible citizens and creating awareness against substance abuse. He reiterated the college’s commitment to supporting initiatives that safeguard the physical, mental and social well-being of students.
Experts from the Indian Red Cross Society, Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, and Jammu & Kashmir Police delivered informative sessions on the medical, psychological, social and legal consequences of drug abuse. They sensitized students about preventive measures, early intervention, rehabilitation, and the importance of making informed and responsible life choices.
Later, a special First Aid Training session was conducted by experts from the Indian Red Cross Society. Participants were imparted practical training on basic life-saving techniques, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), management of bleeding, fracture immobilization and emergency response, equipping them with essential skills to provide immediate assistance during medical emergencies and accidents.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members and officials, who actively interacted with the speakers and experts during the awareness and training sessions. The event concluded with a collective pledge by all participants to stay away from drugs and work together towards building a healthy, safe and drug-free society.