Srinagar: In the recent edition of Maan-Ki-Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lauded the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Government to tackle drug abuse.
“Increasing participation of youth in the campaign against drug abuse is encouraging. These efforts lend a lot of strength to the campaign against drugs in India. If we want to save the future generation of the country, we have to keep them away from drugs. With this thought, `Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ was launched on 15th August 2020,” the Prime Minister said.
The government has launched various initiatives to combat the drug menace. With support from law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, and community volunteers, these efforts are aimed at creating awareness, providing treatment facilities, and cracking down on drug traffickers.
“One of the key steps taken by the J&K government is the establishment of drug de-addiction centers across the region. These centers provide comprehensive treatment facilities, counseling services, and rehabilitation programs. The government has invested heavily in ensuring that individuals struggling with drug addiction have access to professional help and a supportive environment to overcome their dependency,” an official told Precious Kashmir.
He said, “Furthermore, the government has been conducting awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and community centers to educate students and young individuals about the harmful effects of drugs. These campaigns highlight the risks associated with drug abuse and emphasize the importance of making informed decisions regarding one’s physical and mental well-being. By targeting the younger generation, the government aims to prevent the initiation of drug use and promote a healthy lifestyle.”
To strengthen the legal framework, the J&K government, according to the officials, has also implemented stringent measures to curb drug trafficking. “The law enforcing agencies have increased vigilance and set up specialized units to identify and apprehend individuals involved in drug peddling. Several high-profile arrests have been made in recent months, leading to significant disruptions in the drug supply chain. The government is also working closely with neighboring states and central agencies to share intelligence and coordinate efforts to tackle drug trafficking,” the officials added.
Pertinently, the J&K government has collaborated with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based groups to address the issue at the grassroots level. These organizations play a vital role in organizing awareness camps, providing counseling services, and supporting individuals and families affected by drug addiction. The active involvement of the community has generated a sense of responsibility and has fostered an atmosphere of care and support.
“While progress is being made, the J&K government recognizes that more needs to be done to completely eradicate the drug menace. A multi-faceted approach involving prevention, treatment, and law enforcement is being pursued to effectively tackle this complex issue. The government aims to allocate additional resources for expanding treatment facilities, enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies, and conducting further research on effective prevention strategies,” the officials added.
