Dr. Piyush Singla Visits Shopian, Reviews Anti-Drug Campaign; Calls for Strict Action Against Trafficking
Shopian, May 05 (PTK): Secretary, Information Technology Department and District Mentor of Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan for Shopian, Dr. Piyush Singla, on Tuesday chaired a grand anti-drug awareness camp at the Mini Secretariat.
During the visit, Dr. Singla inspected stalls set up by various departments showcasing government schemes, skill development programmes and awareness material aimed at sensitising participants about livelihood and self-employment opportunities for youth.
He directed departments to intensify efforts to combat drug abuse by ensuring access to welfare schemes, vocational training, counselling and employment-oriented programmes, stressing the need to reintegrate affected individuals into mainstream society through structured support systems.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Singla appreciated the district administration for effectively organising the campaign and highlighted the serious social and economic consequences of drug addiction. He called for a united and sustained response, emphasising that the fight against drugs requires collective efforts from society, educational institutions and families.
He encouraged youth to adopt positive paths and urged parents to guide and support their children with vigilance and care. He stressed that the issue must be addressed with compassion, dignity and shared responsibility.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Shishir Gupta, highlighted ongoing district-wide efforts under the campaign and urged the public to confidentially share information regarding substance abuse cases for timely intervention and rehabilitation. He also emphasised promoting self-employment as a means of recovery and reintegration.
Cultural performances by students from various institutions, including Gujjar and Bakerwal Hostel Shopian and New Greenland Higher Secondary School, were showcased. A skit highlighting the harsh realities of drug abuse and a theme-based song “Say No to Drugs” further reinforced the campaign’s message.
Later, Dr. Singla chaired a review meeting with district officers, where detailed discussions were held on enforcement measures. He sought updates on police action against drug peddlers, including FIR registrations and demolition drives against illegal structures linked to drug trafficking.
The meeting also reviewed efforts related to identification and destruction of poppy cultivation and emphasised coordination with agencies like the Narcotics Control Bureau and Income Tax Department. Dr. Singla called for stringent enforcement, enhanced media visibility and the toughest penal action against drug peddling in the district.
The programme was attended by ADDC Shopian Dr. Nisar Ahmad Lone, ADC Shopian Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz, GM DIC, SDM Zainapora, district officers, civil society members and a large number of students and stakeholders.(PTK)
