Srinagar, May 22 (KNS) Amid rising concerns over substance abuse among youth, Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Wednesday called for a comprehensive roadmap and an institutionalised awareness mechanism across all educational institutions and coaching centres in the Union Territory to identify and prevent drug abuse at an early stage.
Chairing a high-level meeting here on strengthening drug de-addiction, mental health awareness, and rehabilitation measures, Itoo stressed the need for a coordinated, society-wide response involving government departments, educational institutions, parents, civil society, and healthcare professionals.
“Educational institutions are not merely centres of learning but also platforms for shaping responsible and healthy citizens. We must ensure that our campuses remain completely free from the influence of drugs and tobacco,” the minister said.
She directed the Commissioner Secretary of Education to devise a proper roadmap in coordination with all stakeholders to prevent and combat the drug menace in schools, colleges, universities, and private coaching centres. She also called for involving Ulemas, Molvis, Masjid and Mohalla Committees in awareness campaigns.
Taking serious note of tobacco sales near schools and colleges, Itoo issued strict directions to the education department to coordinate with enforcement agencies for the immediate closure of all such shops in violation of existing laws.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelShe warned violators of stringent action and ordered regular inspections.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner Secretary Education Ram Niwas Sharma, and Directors of School Education, Health Services, and Colleges, besides Principals of all Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), the State Drug Controller, and representatives of private schools and coaching centres.
Noted neurologist Dr Sushil Razdan, who participated in the meeting, highlighted that young people are being badly affected by drug abuse and doctors have a key role in early detection of symptoms. He also called for de-stigmatisation of affected individuals and urged medical professionals to exercise caution while prescribing psychoactive drugs to prevent accidental addiction.
During the meeting, Sarmad Hafeez apprised the minister of the Whole-of-Government approach being implemented across J&K, including treatment and stabilisation, reintegration and livelihood activation, and sustained social monitoring.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir and directed health officials to strengthen de-addiction and rehabilitation facilities, ensuring accessible counselling and treatment support for affected individuals and families. (KNS)