JU, NCB Jammu organise awareness session on “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life – Drug Free India”
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: In a concerted effort to raise awareness against substance abuse among the youth, the University of Jammu (JU), in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Jammu, organised a special awareness session on the theme “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life – Drug Free India” at the University campus on Wednesday.
The event coincided with the 41st Raising Day of the Narcotics Control Bureau and aimed to sensitise students to the physical, psychological, social, and national consequences of drug abuse, encouraging them to become active stakeholders in building a drug-free society.
The program was organised under the overall supervision of Dean DSW, Prof. Prakash Anthal. Among others present were Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee. Prof Sarika Manhas, Co-Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee, Prof. Seema Rohmetra, Director, The Law School and faculty members from various departments.
The awareness session was graced by dignitaries and guest speakers, including Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Special Secretary in the office of Chief Secretary UT of J&K, Col. Dheeraj Singh Jamwal of Ramachandra Mission, Dr. Ajay Sharma, SP South Jammu.
Addressing the students, Nagendra Jamwal highlighted the pivotal role of youth in shaping India’s future as decision-makers and nation-builders by 2047. He observed that while India progresses with economic growth and demographic advantage, disruptive forces, including drugs, pose subtle threats to young minds, often appearing as curiosity, fashion, or temporary indulgence. He stressed that diversion into substance abuse not only harms individuals and families but also weakens the collective potential of the nation. Jamwal urged universities to adopt interactive and experiential methods for awareness-building rather than relying solely on lectures. He encouraged platforms such as youth festivals, adventure activities, cultural programmes, and heritage visits to channel the energy, creativity, and enthusiasm of students in constructive directions. He emphasized that sustained awareness, repeated consistently over time, is crucial in preventing substance abuse and called upon students to be alert, responsible, and courageous in saying no to drugs.
Dr. Ajay Sharma highlighted the growing seriousness with which drug abuse is being addressed through a coordinated “whole-of-government” approach in Jammu & Kashmir. He underlined that narcotics trafficking constitutes unconventional warfare, posing grave threats to society and national security. Dr. Sharma emphasized the need for stronger public awareness, community participation, and shared responsibility to safeguard the younger generation.
Adding a holistic wellness perspective, Col. Dheeraj Singh Jamwal conducted a calming meditation session, teaching students simple techniques to manage stress, anxiety, and inner restlessness-factors that often contribute to substance abuse. The session underscored the importance of emotional balance, mental well-being, and self-discipline in leading a healthy, drug-free life.
During the event, the book Startup From Small Town authored by Karuna Nanda was released by the dignitaries, further inspiring students to pursue positive initiatives and self-development.
The programme concluded with an Anti-Drug Pledge administered by Vasu Parik, during which students, faculty, and dignitaries collectively resolved to stay away from drugs and encourage others to do the same.
Earlier, Kumar Manohar Manjul, SP, NCB Jammu, in his welcome address, stressed the importance of observing the 41st Raising Day through direct student engagement. He thanked Prof. Prakash Anthal and his team for their collaboration. Highlighting the role of the NCB as India’s premier agency regulating narcotic and psychotropic substances, he noted that drug abuse is a major social concern, requiring awareness, dialogue, and timely intervention to prevent young people from falling prey to substance use.
The formal proceedings concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Nitan Sharma, Assistant Professor, The Law School, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, the NCB team, faculty, and students for making the event a success. The session was ably conducted by Suhasni and Anshika Gandhi, while students and scholars from various teaching departments participated enthusiastically.
