Sopore, May 18 (JKNS): In a significant step towards strengthening community outreach and promoting a drug-free society in north Kashmir, the 179th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Monday organised a Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign) at Makhdoomia Model High School, Warpora, under its Civic Action Programme.
Officials said a similar anti-drug awareness programme was also conducted at GMET Nowpora as part of the campaign aimed at educating youth about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Commanding Officer of 179-BN CRPF, Vinay Kumar Choudhary, and Principal of Higher Secondary School Botingoo, Athar Hussain, attended the event as chief guests.
Second-in-Command officers Vipin Yadav and Mange Ram, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vipin Kumar Singh, and Deputy Commandant Abhay Singh Bhatia were present as guests of honour.
During the programme, Athar Hussain delivered a special lecture highlighting the growing threat of drug abuse among youth and the collective responsibility of society to curb the menace.
Guest speakers included Dr. Javid Ahmad Bhat, Medical Officer at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Sopore, and Dr. Javid Ahmad Monga of 179-BN CRPF.
Dr. Javid Ahmad Bhat spoke extensively on drug abuse and various types of narcotics affecting society, particularly the youth. Dr. Javid Ahmad Monga delivered an awareness lecture on drug de-addiction and rehabilitation.
Students of Makhdoomia Model High School presented a skit portraying the devastating impact of substance abuse on individuals, families and society. The performance received appreciation from attendees and highlighted the importance of collective efforts in combating the drug menace.
Prominent civil society members and local representatives also participated in the programme, including Auqaf President Fayaz Ahmad Wani, General Secretary of Makhdoomia School Abdul Rasheed, school Principal Shabir Ahmad War, Traders Federation Warpora representative Abdul Latief War, and Lumberdar Afroze Ahmad, besides teachers, students and other dignitaries.
A felicitation ceremony was also organised to honour individuals contributing towards anti-drug awareness initiatives and social welfare activities.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Principal Shabir Ahmad War, who appreciated the efforts of the 179-BN CRPF in organising such awareness campaigns for the betterment of society. (JKNS)
