At SKIMS Anti Drug Abuse Program, eminent participants advocate multi-pronged strategy to combat menace

Srinagar: In a significant step towards tackling the growing challenge of drug abuse, the Advanced Centre for Mental Health & Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, SKIMS Medical College, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), organized an awareness program at the SKIMS Medical College Auditorium today.

The event featured a poster competition and expert presentations addressing the multifaceted impact of drug abuse and trafficking on individuals and society.

Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development, Javid Ahmad Dar, delivered a compelling address, underlining the severe consequences of substance abuse, particularly on mental health. He stated that the government has made budgetary provisions for setting up Drug De-Addiction Centres and is initiating structural reforms to address this pressing social issue. Stressing the role of technology and weakening social bonds in exacerbating the problem, he appealed to the youth to remain resilient and focused amidst life’s challenges.

Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, Director SKIMS and EOSG, emphasized the need for a composite and multipronged strategy involving civil society, law enforcement, activists, healthcare professionals, and researchers. He said that SKIMS is committed to launching comprehensive services at upcoming Drug De-Addiction Centres in collaboration with SKIMS Medical College. Prof. Ganie also stressed the importance of Employment Development Programs and Student Empowerment Initiatives as preventive tools.

He commended Prof. Fazal Q. Parray, Principal SKIMS Medical College, for his visionary leadership and underscored the value of institutional synergy and coordinated efforts to bring about positive societal change.

The event was attended by several dignitaries including DIG Police  Imtiyaz Hussain Mir, Former Advisor to Government Khurshid Ahmad Ganie, renowned psychiatrist Prof. Maqbool Margoob, Dr. Faiz Ahmad Fazili, and other members of civil society.

DIG Civil Defence Imtiyaz Hussain Mir reiterated the police department’s active and ongoing role in curbing drug trafficking and pledged continued support for awareness and rehabilitation efforts.

Mr. Khurshid Ganie, in his address, stressed the vital role of schools and political will in addressing the drug crisis. Citing alarming statistics, he emphasized the urgency for collective and coordinated action. He strongly endorsed Prof. Ganie’s strategy and praised his transformative leadership in steering SKIMS towards a new direction. He also lauded Principal Prof. Fazal Q. Parray for his unwavering dedication to institutional growth.