HANDWARA, AWANTIPORA, SHOPIAN: In a comprehensive and multi-pronged offensive against the drug menace, Police has intensified its efforts under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan by carrying out series of awareness and enforcement activities including medical shop inspections to curb drug abuse and promote a drug free society in Handwara, Awantipora and Shopian.

In Handwara, extensive drug awareness programmes were conducted across various institutions and public spaces, sensitizing youth and the general public about the devastating physical, psychological, and social consequences of substance abuse. Emphasis was laid on empowering students as responsible citizens and safeguarding them as the future pillars of the nation. Simultaneously, rigorous inspections of medical shops were carried out to ensure strict compliance with legal provisions governing the sale of prescription drugs.

Shopkeepers were sensitized and warned against any unauthorized sale or misuse of pharmaceutical substances, with clear directions to maintain proper records as per law. Further strengthening enforcement, intensive checking of identified drug hotspots was undertaken, with enhanced surveillance and naka operations to deter illegal activities and dismantle networks involved in drug trafficking.

In a significant environmental and anti-narcotics action, wild cannabis (bhang) plants were identified and destroyed in multiple locations, eliminating potential sources of illicit drug production at the grassroots level.

In Awantipora, drug awareness programme was conducted at Government Middle School Kawani, where students and staff were sensitized about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Similarly, an awareness programme was organized at Government Boys Higher Secondary School Batagund, Tral. Students and staff actively participated and were educated about the dangers of substance abuse and its adverse impact on society. In addition to awareness initiatives, checking of medical shops was conducted in Aripal area to ensure compliance with existing regulations and to prevent the illegal sale and misuse of drugs.

In Shopian, Police carried out a comprehensive inspection drive targeting chemist shops and druggist establishments in the vicinity of Keller Hospital. During the drive, thorough inspections were conducted focusing on stock registers, sale and purchase records, valid licenses and other mandatory documentation at various establishments. Officials emphasized that any violation involving the illegal possession, sale or distribution of controlled substances will invite strict action under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act.

Police reiterates its firm commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and urges the public to actively cooperate by sharing information and supporting the mission for a safer and healthier society.

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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