GREATER NOIDA: In a significant step towards creating a drug-free India, the Department of Community Medicine at NIIMS Medical College & Hospital organized a powerful awareness event under the "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan" initiative, supporting the vision of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India. Over 300 students participated in the program, pledging to stay "Nasha Mukt" and to extend their efforts in helping individuals battling substance abuse.

The event, steered by Dr. Ranjana Singh, Head of the Department of Community Medicine, aimed at preventing, educating, and rehabilitating individuals affected by drug abuse. She said, ā€œNasha is not bad if it is of confidence, career, education, and growth. If anyone wants to become addicted, be addicted for your self-growth to have a bright future. To avoid handcuffs, avoid drugs.ā€

Adding to the impactful day, students organized a walkathon across the campus, followed by an engaging scenario simulation where the MBBS Batch of 2022 performed a role play depicting the harsh realities and consequences of substance addiction. The event culminated with a solemn pledge ceremony, where student volunteers and participants vowed to work towards eradicating drug addiction from their lives and communities.

According to the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, over 2.8% of India's population (nearly 3 crore people) have reported substance use disorders. Alarmingly, nearly 5.7 crore Indians are dependent on alcohol, while approximately 2.6 crore individuals use opioids such as heroin, opium, and pharmaceutical opioids. Drug abuse deteriorates physical health, leading to heart diseases, liver damage, and neurological issues. It has profound psychological impacts, contributing to depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and suicidal tendencies.

Dr. Sangeeta Dewan, Nodal Officer of the programme, said, The workshop emphasized the urgent need for collaborative action to tackle the rising cases of drug abuse, rehabilitate affected individuals, and build a healthier, stronger nation. Thanks to the Dean, Dr. Ashutosh Niranjan, and Associate Dean, Dr. Arun Chaudhary, who graced the event with their presence, encouraging students to act as change-makers in society. Through initiatives like these, NIIMS Medical College & Hospital reiterates its commitment to the Nasha Mukt Bharat mission — envisioning a future where youth channel their energy towards growth, education, and national development.

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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