Budgam, April 08, 2025 – The Forest Department in Budgam district organised a “Say No to Drugs” awareness campaign at Raithan village today, aiming to educate youth and local residents about the detrimental effects of drug abuse. The event, held as part of a broader effort to combat the rising drug menace in Jammu and Kashmir, saw enthusiastic participation from the community, with students playing a pivotal role in amplifying the message.
The campaign featured interactive sessions where officials from the Forest Department highlighted the physical, mental, and social consequences of drug addiction. They emphasised the importance of collective action in building a drug-free society, urging attendees to stay vigilant and support rehabilitation efforts. Local youth and students actively engaged in the program, presenting skits, speeches, and pledge-taking ceremonies to reinforce their commitment to rejecting drugs.
A senior official from the Forest Department noted, “Our goal is to empower the community, especially the younger generation, with knowledge and awareness to resist the lure of drugs. The active involvement of students and locals in Raithan is a promising sign of change.” The event also underscored the department’s unconventional role in social outreach, extending beyond its traditional environmental mandate to address pressing societal issues.
The “Say No to Drugs” campaign aligns with ongoing initiatives like the “Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan,” reflecting a multi-agency approach to tackle substance abuse in the region. Community participation was a highlight, with residents expressing appreciation for the effort and calling for more such programs to safeguard the future of Budgam’s youth.