Kulgam, April 5, 2025 – Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan, officially launched a mega Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign against drug abuse in the district today, as part of the broader Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir initiative. Speaking exclusively to DD News Srinagar during the launch, Khan emphasised the campaign’s focus on raising awareness, promoting rehabilitation, and providing long-term support to those affected by substance abuse, calling for collective efforts to build a healthier, addiction-free society.
The day-long event, organised by the District Administration Kulgam, included a sensitisation program for resource persons, presided over by Khan. He highlighted the pivotal role of these individuals in ensuring a focused and result-oriented campaign, urging them to engage communities effectively to combat the growing challenge of drug addiction in the region. The initiative aims to educate youth and families about the dangers of substance abuse while fostering a supportive environment for recovery and prevention.
Khan underscored the importance of a multi-faceted approach, combining awareness drives with accessible rehabilitation services to address the root causes of addiction. “This campaign is not just about saying no to drugs but about offering hope and opportunities for a better life,” he told DD News Srinagar. The IEC campaign will leverage local influencers, schools, and community centers to spread its message, aiming to curb the drug menace in Kulgam and beyond.
The Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir initiative has already shown progress, with the government reporting a decline in drug addiction cases from 8,702 in 2022 to 6,922 in 2024 across the Union Territory, attributed to enhanced de-addiction facilities and outreach efforts. Kulgam’s campaign is expected to further strengthen these efforts, aligning with the vision of a drug-free region through sustained community participation. For more information on the campaign, contact the Kulgam District Administration.