BUDGAM: The 38th District-Level NCORD (Narco Coordination) meeting was held today in Budgam, under the chairmanship by Deputy Commissioner (DC), Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat to review ongoing measures against drug abuse and finalize fresh strategies for a drug-free Budgam.

At the outset, DC took a detailed review of the action taken on previous NCORD decisions. It was informed that wild cannabis on 144 kanals of land has been destroyed in different parts of the district, besides 38 FIRs have also been registered against culprits involved in illicit cultivation, and also 57 arrests have taken place.

DC reiterated that drug abuse is a grave social problem, demanding deterrence, enforcement, treatment, and awareness as a multi-pronged strategy. He directed for immediate execution of the District Drug De-Addiction Centre to strengthen treatment and rehabilitation facilities. DC directed BDOs, EOs, Agriculture, and Excise departments to clear all main roads from cannabis and poppy cultivation, particularly from Budgam to Chadoora, Magam, Beerwah, and Khag, and along Humhama to Budgam route.

He stressed that 100% CCTV and Computerized Billing Systems (CBS) be  ensured in drug stores across the district, besides ensure continued monitoring of pharmacies with CCTV/ CBS integration . It was informed that Budgam has 630 retail and 225 wholesale chemist outlets, all under strict monitoring. Dr Bilal noted that 108 calls have been received on the Tele-MANAS mental health helpline, reflecting its growing role in community support.

SDMs were directed to convene meetings with religious scholars and stakeholders at sub-divisional levels, encouraging sermons against drug abuse and formation of Nasha-Mukt Panchayats. DC directed Rural Development Department to hold Gram Sabhas dedicated to drug abuse awareness. DSWO was directed to organize mega IEC drives across district for mass awareness. CMO Budgam was directed to ensure 24x7 availability of medical facilities at the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) Centre in District Hospital Budgam.

DC underscored the importance of cooperation, coordination, and collaboration among departments and communities to eradicate the drug menace. He said that zero-tolerance against drug peddling will continue with strict punitive action against culprits while equal focus will be given to rehabilitation, awareness, and mental health support.

He urged all stakeholders, departments, institutions, civil society, and community leaders to work with collective resolve to break the drug supply chain and promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles. DC stressed that district administration stands united with all stakeholders in pursuing a zero-tolerance policy against drugs while ensuring support, awareness, and treatment pathways for affected individuals.

The meeting was attended by ADC Budgam, ASP Budgam, CMO, CEO, SDM Khansahib, SDM Chadoora, Assistant Drug Control Officer, Principals of Government Degree Colleges, Executive Officers of Municipal Committees, and other concerned stakeholders.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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