Youth Convention held at Bandipora

Youth have to take a lead role in the fight against drug addiction: Shakeel Ul Rehman

BANDIPORA, January 22: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel Ul Rehman Rather on Monday emphasized that the youth have to take a lead role in the fight against drug addiction and assured every possible step to all such initiatives aiming to ensure a drug-free society.

He was speaking at a Youth Convention organised by Youth Federation Bandipora in collaboration with District Administration, Bandipora, at Conference Hall, Mini-Secretariat, Bandipora.

The DC said that the menace of drug addiction has shaken the foundations of the society, and it is the responsibility of every single individual to stand up against this menace. He further said the youth have to take a leading role as they are the real targets of this menace, and only they can take this fight heads on.

He also discussed various issues related to menace of drug addiction, areas of concern, age group of addicts, hot spots of drug peddling, abuse, besides, cultivation of illicit poppy and cannabis in the district.

The DC highlighted the need for coordinated efforts between Government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations and community leaders to effectively address the drug problem.

He appreciated the Youth Federation for organising the program and assured every possible help from the government to eradicate the menace. He urged the youths to work at a localised level to deal with the menace.

The program was also attended by ACR Shabir Ahmad Wani and Tehsildar Bandipora.

On the occasion President Youth Federation Bandipora and Brand Ambassador Nasha Mukht Bharat Faisal Ali Dar unveiled the activity calendar of the year 2024 and said that the year will be celebrated as “Drug Free Bandipora”. He said different activities will be taken up under the banner, including sports activities, seminars, counseling sessions, and awareness programs besides other activities to engage the youth in productive activities.

He said the main thrust will be on Sports, culture, and tourism to engage the youth and sensitize them about the ill effects of drug abuse.

On the occasion, the participants also undertook a pledge resolving their efforts against drug menace and to make Bandipora a drug free district.