Khan Jahangeer
Sopore
Jammu and Kashmir has seen an exponential increase in drug use in recent years.Even more alarming fact is that the rate of drug addiction among students, both males and females, is steadily rising.To address the problem the fourteen days *Transformation Through Excellence* programme was organised by Kilo Force under the aegis of Chinar Corps at Langate, Charkut, Manasbal and Haiderbeg from 25 September to 09 October 2022.The programme’s main objective was to raise awareness and eradicate the drug menace among the youth of North Kashmir.
More than *300 Youth* of the North Kashmir including girls participated in the event.
The programme aimed to educate young people about the dangers of drug addiction and to motivate and encourage them to stay away from drugs. A group of experts from the Indian Army and civil domain conducted a series of lecture and counselling sessions to develop specific modules for addiction prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of addicts. During the event, various individuals delivered guest lectures on the drug epidemic.Under the direction of *Dr.Mir Inayat (Medical Officer Hospital, Handwara)* local students performed series of skits depicting the negative effects of drug addiction.In addition, the District Skill Development Officers of respective locations provided an overview of several government drug rehabilitation programmes
The event included counselling sessions and lectures on personality types and how having a goal in life can help to eliminate drug-related thoughts and effects by the power of subconscious mind.The participants were also made aware of how our childhood teachings about substance abuse were incorrect, as well as the subsequent chain of social events caused by the evil behind it.
This event provided a ray of hope to the participants and many others, and such events should be held on a regular basis in order to alleviate the society’s drug problem.The programme educated participants on the dangers of drug addiction and abuse while also encouraging them to pursue education and gainful employment, allowing them to remain self-sufficient.
“Young generation gets easily influenced and become victim of drug abuse.To address the problem at its core it is necessary to educate young generation about the ill effects of narcotic substances.The awareness programme such as *Transformation Through Excellence* provide much needed awareness about the drug menace and will help transform the society” said Miss Hafza Iqbal, from New Tiny Hearts School in Ganderbal.
“Such programme not only spread awareness about ill effects of narcotic substance but also provides opportunity to young generation to discuss their problems with counselors. It is an effective way to save society from drugs” said Master Aarfat Nazir Mir, from Army Goodwill School in Butkot.
On culmination of programme, certificates were given to the youth, guest speakers and conducting team. Participants expressed their gratitude to the team for conducting the event and whole heartedly supported and appreciated the program.They voiced that such events are strongly recommended to be conducted across North and South Kashmir.