In observance of the ‘International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,’ the District Administration Srinagar organized an awareness event at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS). The event was held under the theme ‘Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.’

Chief Guest: Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Srinagar, was the chief guest at the event.

Key Attendees:

• Prof. Dr. Mohammad Maqbool, HOD IMHANS
• Abdul Hameed Fani, Chief Education Officer
• Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, District Social Welfare Officer, Srinagar
• Staff and students of IMHANS
• Experts from Kashmir University
• Representatives from various concerned departments

Event Highlights: During his address, DC Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat emphasized the significance of the day, stating that it aims to raise awareness about the threats posed by illicit drugs to society. The primary focus of the event was to spread awareness, especially among youth, about the detrimental effects of drug abuse and the measures needed to achieve a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Points from DC’s Speech:

• The District Administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drug peddling.
• Stringent actions are being taken against the illicit trafficking of drugs and its peddlers.
• Measures have been implemented to combat the dangerous trade of drug trafficking in Srinagar.
• Mass awareness programs are crucial, and societal contributions are essential in curbing substance abuse.
• Young participants were encouraged to support the administration in breaking the drug supply chain and taking timely action against culprits to make Srinagar a drug-free district.
• Youth were urged to join hands in the fight against drug abuse to protect present and future generations.

Support and Rehabilitation:

• Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) Centres have been established in the district to combat drug menace and provide counseling and rehabilitation.
• Victims receive treatment at IMHANS, SMHS, and Kathi Darwaza Badamwari, along with tele-counseling facilities from the administration.

Additional Activities: Awareness programs and theme-based activities were also organized by various departments in their respective institutions across the district to further the cause.

The event underscored the importance of prevention, treatment, and community involvement in the fight against drug abuse, aligning with the global efforts to eradicate this menace.