BUDGAM: As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), a series of awareness, outreach, counselling, enforcement and community mobilization activities were conducted across District Budgam by various departments and institutions to strengthen efforts aimed at achieving a drug-free society. The Excise Department, in coordination with the Rural Development Department, organized an awareness programme at village Kanihama in Tehsil Magam.

During the programme, local residents were sensitized about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of community participation in combating the menace. As part of the enforcement component of the campaign, a cannabis destruction drive was also carried out in the area, during which wild cannabis growing along riverbanks and roadsides was eradicated.

In another significant initiative, the District Employment and Counselling Centre Budgam, in collaboration with Government Higher Secondary School Wadwan, organized an awareness and counselling session for students. The participants were sensitized about Mission YUVA and educated about the adverse social, economic and health consequences of drug abuse. Students were encouraged to make informed life choices and contribute towards a healthier society.

The Forest Department also continued its outreach efforts under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Doodganga Range of Pir Panjal Forest Division, in collaboration with Bright Mission Secondary School BK Pora, organized an awareness programme highlighting the harmful effects of substance abuse and the need for collective action against drugs.

As part of the campaign, a plantation drive was conducted under the theme ā€œEk Ped Nashe Ke Virudhā€ in collaboration with Bright Mission Secondary School BK Pora. The initiative combined environmental conservation with anti-drug awareness, emphasizing the role of youth in building a healthier and greener future.

Further strengthening community engagement, students, teaching staff and officials of the Forest Department participated in an NMBA pledge-taking ceremony at Government Model Secondary School Khandah, BK Pora. Participants reaffirmed their commitment towards combating drug abuse and promoting a drug-free society.

Meanwhile, a joint awareness rally was organized under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan from District Agriculture Complex Naraspora to New Bus Stand Budgam. Officers and officials from MDA, AAI and STL actively participated in the rally, which aimed to create awareness among the general public regarding the harmful effects of drug abuse and to encourage collective efforts towards building a drug-free society.

The various programmes witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, officials, teachers and members of the public. Through awareness generation, counselling, environmental initiatives, community mobilization and enforcement measures, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan continues to gain momentum across the district.

The District Administration reiterated its commitment to sustaining coordinated efforts among departments and stakeholders to achieve the objectives of the campaign and strengthen the movement towards a healthier, safer and drug-free Budgam.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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