Poonch June 7,2026 – Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday led a massive padyatra in Poonch as part of the ongoing ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign, calling upon citizens across the Union Territory to unite against drug abuse and narco-terrorism. The event marked the culmination of a significant public outreach movement that has traversed all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, mobilizing communities, youth, civil society groups, educational institutions, and local administrations in a collective fight against the menace of drugs.
Addressing a large gathering during the concluding event of the anti-drug campaign in Poonch, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the administration’s unwavering commitment to making Jammu and Kashmir free from the scourge of narcotics. He emphasized that the campaign is not merely a government initiative but a people’s movement aimed at safeguarding future generations from addiction and criminal networks linked to drug trafficking.
“Joined the ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign today in Poonch. The padyatra, carried out with strong public participation and firm resolve, has covered all 20 districts of the Union Territory. Our intention is noble and our objective is clear—to free the soil of Jammu and Kashmir from the scourge of drugs and eliminate narco-terrorism,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The padyatra witnessed enthusiastic participation from thousands of residents, students, youth volunteers, elected representatives, government officials, members of civil society organizations, and security personnel. Participants marched with banners and placards carrying anti-drug messages, demonstrating a collective commitment to building a healthier and safer society.
Campaign Reaches Every Corner of Jammu and Kashmir
The ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign has emerged as one of the largest public awareness initiatives undertaken in the Union Territory. Covering all 20 districts, the campaign has sought to educate people about the devastating consequences of drug abuse while encouraging communities to actively participate in prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation efforts.
Throughout the campaign, awareness drives, seminars, workshops, sports events, cultural programs, and padyatras were organized to engage people from all walks of life. Special emphasis was placed on reaching young people, who are often the most vulnerable targets of drug traffickers and peddlers.
Officials noted that the campaign has generated unprecedented public participation and has successfully transformed the fight against drugs into a mass movement. The administration believes that sustained community engagement is essential to achieving long-term success in eliminating substance abuse.
Call for a 43-Day Intensive Mission
During his address in Poonch, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced an intensified phase of the campaign, urging citizens to dedicate the next 43 days to strengthening the anti-drug movement.
“The fight for a drug-free J&K intensifies today from Poonch. For the next 43 days, every citizen, Panchayat, and ward must unite to target drug smugglers, drug peddlers, drive awareness, and accelerate rehabilitation. Collective responsibility will build a healthier future,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed that eliminating drug abuse requires coordinated action at every level of society. He called upon local communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in identifying and reporting individuals involved in drug trafficking.
He urged Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, educational institutions, youth clubs, and social organizations to actively participate in awareness campaigns and rehabilitation efforts. According to him, the battle against drugs cannot be won by the government alone and requires active participation from every citizen.
Narco-Terrorism a Major Threat
Highlighting the nexus between drug trafficking and terrorism, the Lieutenant Governor described narco-terrorism as one of the most serious challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir.
He reiterated that drug money is often used to finance activities aimed at destabilizing peace and security in the region. Therefore, eliminating the drug trade is not only a social necessity but also a critical security imperative.
“Drug trade and terrorism are two sides of the same coin,” the Lieutenant Governor said, adding that narco-terror networks seek to destroy the future of youth while simultaneously funding activities that threaten national security.
He emphasized that the administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers and those involved in supporting or facilitating the illegal narcotics trade.
Focus on Youth Empowerment
A central theme of the campaign has been youth empowerment and engagement. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the importance of providing positive opportunities and healthy alternatives to young people.
He noted that sports, education, entrepreneurship, skill development, and cultural activities play a crucial role in protecting youth from the dangers of addiction. By encouraging participation in constructive pursuits, society can help young people realize their potential and contribute positively to nation-building.
The Lieutenant Governor praised the enthusiasm displayed by students and youth groups during the padyatra and expressed confidence that the younger generation would become the strongest force in the fight against drugs.
He urged educational institutions to continue organizing awareness programs and counseling sessions to educate students about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
Strengthening Rehabilitation Efforts
Alongside prevention and enforcement, rehabilitation remains a key pillar of Jammu and Kashmir’s anti-drug strategy. The Lieutenant Governor stressed the need to ensure that individuals struggling with addiction receive timely treatment, counseling, and support.
He called upon healthcare institutions, counselors, social workers, and community leaders to work together to help recovering individuals reintegrate into society with dignity and confidence.
According to officials, the administration has expanded rehabilitation services and strengthened mechanisms for identifying and assisting those affected by substance abuse. The goal is to provide comprehensive support that addresses both medical and social aspects of recovery.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that individuals battling addiction should not be stigmatized but should instead receive encouragement and assistance to rebuild their lives.
Public Participation Key to Success
One of the defining features of the ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign has been the active involvement of ordinary citizens. Residents across districts have participated in rallies, awareness drives, public meetings, and social initiatives aimed at spreading the message of a drug-free society.
The Lieutenant Governor praised the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their overwhelming support and participation in the campaign. He noted that public cooperation has significantly strengthened the administration’s efforts to curb drug abuse and dismantle trafficking networks.
Community leaders, teachers, parents, religious scholars, and youth volunteers have all played an important role in creating awareness and promoting responsible behavior.
Officials believe that grassroots participation is essential for identifying emerging challenges and ensuring that anti-drug initiatives reach every household.
Security Agencies Intensify Crackdown
The administration has also intensified enforcement measures against drug smugglers and peddlers. Security agencies and law enforcement departments have been conducting sustained operations to dismantle narcotics networks operating within and beyond Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities have seized significant quantities of narcotics, arrested individuals involved in trafficking, and initiated legal action under relevant provisions of law.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the efforts of police, security forces, and investigative agencies in combating the drug menace and protecting communities from criminal elements.
He assured the public that the administration would continue to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure strict action against those involved in narcotics-related crimes.
Vision for a Healthier Future
The ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign reflects a broader vision of building a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. By tackling drug abuse, promoting awareness, supporting rehabilitation, and eliminating narco-terror networks, the administration aims to create an environment where young people can pursue their aspirations without fear or addiction.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that the movement is ultimately about protecting families, strengthening communities, and securing the future of generations to come.
As the campaign enters its next phase, the administration hopes to maintain the momentum generated across all districts and transform public awareness into sustained action.
The massive participation witnessed in Poonch demonstrated the growing public resolve to reject drugs and support efforts aimed at creating a drug-free society. With citizens, institutions, and government agencies working together, the campaign seeks to ensure that Jammu and Kashmir continues moving toward a future defined by health, opportunity, peace, and progress.
The Lieutenant Governor concluded with a strong appeal for collective action, urging every resident of Jammu and Kashmir to become an active stakeholder in the mission against drugs. He expressed confidence that through unity, vigilance, and determination, the Union Territory would succeed in eliminating the menace of narcotics and defeating narco-terrorism.
