• Install CCTV cameras; intensify NMB campaign in educational institutions: DC to stakeholders

POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal today chaired a meeting of District Level Committee under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to review and enhance strategies to combat the menace of substance abuse in the district.

At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the status of each department regarding their activities and efforts aimed at achieving a drug-free Poonch. He directed the police department to intensify crackdown on drug peddlers and continue aggressive enforcement drives. All Executive Magistrates and line departments were instructed to extend full cooperation in the district-wide campaign against drugs.

The DC also emphasized the need for holding of regular divisional and tehsil-level NCORD meetings by all SDMs and Tehsildars. He directed them to invite heads of Panchayat-level Committees to these meetings and focus on assessing local drug-related challenges. Officials were also asked to regularly review the performance of Panchayat-level committees and promptly report any suspicious activities to the concerned authorities.

It was noted that the district has achieved 100% installation of CCTV cameras and computerized billing systems at all chemist shops. The DC called for strict monitoring of these systems to prevent sale of psychotropic drugs.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of proactive measures, directing the Education Department to install CCTV cameras in all educational institutions to monitor any illicit activity related to drug abuse. Additionally, he instructed the department to display 'Nasha Mukat' banners prominently at the entry gates of schools and colleges.

The Deputy Commissioner mandated the appointment of Anti Drug Captains (ADC) in all educational institutions. These students will work closely with school administration to identify and support drug addicts within their institutions.

The DC called for joint initiatives involving all concerned departments, including Social Welfare, Health, JKSRLM, Rural Development, Revenue, Police, Excise, Education and others to advocate for active awareness programs about the adverse effects of drug abuse. He reiterated the critical role of awareness campaigns in fostering a drug-free environment.

Moreover, he directed the Health & Transport Department to implement thorough testing measures and maintain comprehensive records. The Deputy Commissioner further ordered the destruction of any illegal poppy straw cultivation in forest areas, reinforcing the commitment to combat drug proliferation.

The meeting also reviewed the functioning of Drug De-addiction Centres and the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) in the district. The DC emphasized the importance of maintaining confidentiality while ensuring effective treatment of patients. The meeting concluded with a call to action for all concerned departments to ensure widespread dissemination of helpline numbers, including Tele-MANAS, Mental Health Helplines, and Nasha Mukt Helplines, through hoardings and IEC activities across the district.

The meeting marked a decisive push towards enhancing the district-level mechanism to combat drug abuse and secure a healthier, drug-free future for Poonch. This meeting was attended by SSP, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Superintendent DH, Divisional Forest Officer, SDM Mendhar, DSWO, ARTO, Tehsildars, Drug Inspector, Chief Education Officer and the Principals of Government Degree Colleges.

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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