BANDIPORA: Under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, an awareness programme on drug abuse was organised at Mangnipora on Monday by Indian Army’s Wullar Battalion in collaboration with the Education Department to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.

Zonal Education Officer Quilmuqam delivered the welcome address and highlighted the negative physical, psychological and social consequences of drug abuse. He stressed the need for collective efforts to protect youth from falling prey to addiction.

The Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge to participants and urged everyone to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the serious threat posed by drug abuse, particularly among youth, and emphasized the importance of community participation in combating the menace. She urged young people to adopt healthy lifestyles and stay away from drugs.

The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted the provisions of the COTPA Act, which prohibits the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco-related products in and around educational institutions. She directed the District Health Officer Bandipora and Zonal Education Officer to conduct regular inspections to ensure strict implementation of the Act.

The Deputy Commissioner said greater collective efforts would help reduce youth involvement in substance abuse and warned participants about the dangers of passive smoking. Cautioning students against drug peddlers, she said such elements often lure youth in different ways before trapping them in addiction.

Urging participants to remain vigilant, the Deputy Commissioner remarked, “Respect all, suspect all,” and encouraged the public to extend support and share feedback with the administration in the fight against substance abuse.

The programme also featured awareness and interactive sessions focusing on the harmful effects of drug addiction and the need for a united societal response towards building a drug-free society. The event concluded with participants expressing commitment towards supporting the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.

Among others, the programme witnessed participation of District Health Officer Bandipora, CDPO ICDS, Supervisors, Anganwadi workers and Helpers, students, teachers, officials, local residents, representatives from the Defence Labour Department and sports organisations.

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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