Kashmir, March 06, 2025 | 02:00 PM
Kathua, March 06, 2025 – A group of determined women bikers is riding across Jammu and Kashmir with a powerful message: a drug-free society begins at home. Leading the charge is Anu Talwar, a Jammu resident and member of the Shakti Udghosh Foundation, who is rallying support for a cause that aims to transform communities and strengthen the nation.
A Rally with a Purpose
The campaign, themed “Nasha Mukt Seema” (Drug-Free Border), kicked off recently in Kathua, with the bikers setting out on a journey to Poonch. The initiative was flagged off by Dr. Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner of Kathua, marking the start of an ambitious effort to combat drug abuse in the region. Led by Preeti Chaudhary, coordinator of the Shakti Udghosh Foundation, the team of female riders is using their wheels to spread awareness and inspire action.
Anu Talwar, speaking from Kathua, emphasized the campaign’s core mission. “My name is Anu Talwar from Jammu, and I am associated with Shakti Udghosh,” she said. “We are currently leading a campaign to create a drug-free society, aiming to raise awareness and encourage everyone to join us in making our homes and country drug-free.”
Addressing a Growing Concern
Drug abuse has been a persistent challenge in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in areas close to the border. The Shakti Udghosh Foundation’s initiative seeks to tackle this issue head-on by engaging communities and fostering a collective resolve to eliminate substance abuse. The choice of a women-led biker rally underscores the campaign’s intent to break stereotypes while delivering a strong social message.
The bikers’ route from Kathua to Poonch is symbolic, passing through regions where drug-related issues have been reported. By traveling through these areas, the team hopes to spark conversations, encourage local participation, and highlight the role of families in building a healthier society.
Community Engagement at the Heart of the Mission
Anu Talwar’s call to action resonates with the campaign’s broader vision. “It’s not just about raising awareness,” she noted. “We want people to feel empowered to take responsibility—starting with their own homes.” The initiative encourages citizens to join hands in rejecting drugs and supporting rehabilitation efforts for those affected.
Posts found on X reflect the campaign’s early momentum, with users sharing updates about the rally’s departure and its objectives. While these posts indicate public interest, the full impact of the campaign remains to be seen as the bikers continue their journey.
A Road Ahead
As the women bikers ride toward Poonch, their campaign is expected to gain further traction. Local authorities and organizations have expressed support, with hopes that this movement will inspire similar efforts across Jammu and Kashmir. For Anu Talwar and her team, the road ahead is both a literal and figurative one—each mile a step closer to a drug-free future.
The Shakti Udghosh Foundation’s efforts serve as a reminder that change begins with collective action. With their helmets on and their message clear, these women are not just riding bikes—they’re driving a movement.