An awareness-cum-interaction programme under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was held today at Dak Bungalow Sopore. The event was organised by the Office of the Drugs Control Department, Baramulla in collaboration with the Chemists and Druggists Association Sopore (CADAS).
Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Sopore, Mr. Irshad Ahmad Kar, was the Chief Guest, while Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Raina, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.
The programme was attended by key officials including the SDPO and SHO Sopore, officers from the Health and Drugs Control Departments of Baramulla and Kupwara, senior registered medical practitioners, pharmacists, Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, resource person from GMC Baramulla, members of CADAS, and students from various institutions.
In his keynote address, Dr. Zaffer Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Drugs Controller for Baramulla and Kupwara, highlighted the urgent need for coordinated action against drug abuse. He outlined the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure 100% implementation of UT and District NCORD Committee guidelines, which include installation of CCTV cameras at medical shops, adoption of computerized billing, sale of Schedule H and H1 drugs through valid prescriptions, and stricter control over habit-forming medications such as Pregabalin and Tapentadol.
Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat delivered a detailed lecture on the medical complications arising from drug abuse and illicit trafficking, underscoring the social and health risks associated with substance addiction.
It was reiterated during the programme that Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as the second-most affected region in India in terms of drug abuse, with approximately 2.5% of the state’s population involved in substance use—just behind the North Eastern states, where the figure stands at 3%.
Stakeholders from various sectors shared their concerns and suggestions, emphasizing the collective responsibility of the community to combat the growing drug menace and protect the youth from its devastating impact.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Showkat Mohuddin, President of the Chemists and Druggists Association Sopore, who appreciated the active participation of all attendees and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the cause.
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