Srinagar, May 7: A two-day conclave at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), supported by Khyber Cement, has laid the groundwork for Jammu and Kashmir’s first dedicated policy framework to combat drug addiction, officials said.
The workshop, titled “Drug-Free Society: Call for Collective Action,” was held on May 4 and 5 and brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, law enforcement officials, civil society representatives and youth participants to deliberate on the region’s growing substance abuse crisis.
Organised by IUST’s Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, the conclave was aligned with the national Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Director of the Centre, G N Itoo, along with senior administrators and experts, anchored the discussions.
Officials said the university will now prepare a comprehensive policy document based on the deliberations, which will be formally submitted to the Jammu and Kashmir government. The proposed framework aims to address a long-standing gap by providing a structured roadmap to tackle drug abuse through prevention, treatment, enforcement, education and community engagement.
Experts at the conclave emphasised that drug addiction in the region is not merely a health concern but a broader social challenge affecting families, educational institutions and workplaces, requiring coordinated intervention across sectors.
Speaking on the initiative, Umar Tramboo, Director (Corporate & Strategy) at Khyber Cement, said the company’s involvement reflects its commitment to social responsibility beyond infrastructure development. He noted that supporting the initiative aligns with efforts to build a healthier and more resilient society through actionable policy outcomes.
Similarly, Wasim Ahmed Khan, Chief (Sales & Customer Relations), stressed the need for collective action, stating that youth must be supported through awareness and enabling environments free from the influence of addiction.
Participants highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir currently lacks a dedicated anti-drug policy framework, and the forthcoming document is expected to serve as a first formal reference point for sustained and coordinated action by the administration.
The initiative also underscores increasing private sector participation in addressing social challenges. Khyber Cement, which has been involved in programmes related to education, healthcare, youth empowerment and sports in the region, said its support for the conclave reflects a broader commitment to community well-being.
Observers said the proposed policy framework, once finalised and submitted, could play a crucial role in shaping a comprehensive and institutional response to the region’s growing drug abuse problem.
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