In a strong stride towards building a Nasha Mukt Bharat (Drug Free India), a collaborative awareness programme was organized at Govt. Girls Middle School Boniyar uniting multiple departments and institutions under one powerful cause eradicating the drug menace. The Jammu and Kashmir Excise and Taxation Range Baramulla, in collaboration with the Block Development Officer Boniyar, the Education Department, the Department of Youth Services and Sports, BMO Boniyar and the Integrated Child Development Services department joined hands to raise awareness against substance abuse among school children and the community.
The programme witnessed the active participation of officials from diverse backgrounds and professions creating a multidisciplinary forum that emphasized the holistic impact of drugs on society. Among the dignitaries present were Mr. Mubashir Ahmad Inspector from the Excise and Taxation Department, Mr. Sheikh Mubarak, Physical Education Teacher DYSSO, Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi Teacher at Govt. Girls Middle School Boniyar, Mr. Irshad Ahmad Tantary Teacher, Mr. Ghulam Nabi Sheikh Ex Sarpanch, Mr. Shahid Ahmad Awan GRS RDD, Dr. Yasmeena from PHC Boniyar and Ms. Mehbooba Suhail Anganwadi Worker from Nowshera who attended on behalf of the Supervisor.
Also present were the students of Govt. Girls Middle School Boniyar, whose enthusiastic participation reflected the growing consciousness among the youth regarding their role in shaping a healthier and safer society.
The function commenced with a warm welcome to all guests, faculty members and students. Setting the tone for the event, Mr. Sheikh Mubarak addressed the gathering with an insightful and motivational speech on the social and psychological repercussions of drug abuse. In his address he elaborated on how drug addiction not only affects the individual but also disrupts family life, social order and national productivity.
He emphasized that while the government, law enforcement and healthcare professionals play a significant role in controlling drug abuse, every citizen holds a shared responsibility in this mission. “Each of us has a duty to act as a watchdog within our communities, to identify vulnerable individuals and to extend help before it is too late,” he remarked. His appeal to the students to take a strong stand against peer pressure and to act as ambassadors of change resonated deeply with the young audience.
Following Mr. Sheikh Mubarak’s address, Dr. Yasmeena from PHC Boniyar took the stage to shed light on the biological and psychological effects of drug use. Her talk was both scientific and empathetic, focusing on how drug abuse affects the brain, heart, lungs and overall cognitive function. She warned about the long term damage caused by even occasional use and discussed the progression from casual use to addiction.
Dr. Yasmeena also shared real life cases she had encountered during her service, offering sobering insights into how young lives are often ruined due to a single wrong decision. She concluded by emphasizing the importance of mental health support, open communication within families and the need for early intervention.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Mr. Ghulam Nabi Sheikh spoke about the need for increased community vigilance. Addressing the students directly, he said, “You are not just students; you are future citizens and leaders. It is your moral duty to be informed, alert and responsible.”
He urged them to avoid bad company and to speak out against suspicious activities in their surroundings. “Today, it is not just about protecting ourselves it is about protecting an entire generation from falling into the pit of addiction,” he stated with conviction. He also encouraged students to become peer educators, advocating awareness in their neighbourhood and families.
The programme was a beautiful representation of collective commitment teachers, health professionals, law enforcers and child development workers all came together with one aim: to build a safer, drug free future. The inclusion of multiple departments underlines how deeply interconnected the issue of drug abuse is, touching every aspect of society health, education, family, and law.
Each officer and speaker emphasized that tackling drugs is not solely the government’s responsibility. Instead, the onus lies with every individual, particularly the youth, who must recognize the traps set by addiction and consciously choose a path of wellness and growth.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks presented by Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi Teacher at GMS Boniyar and one of the key contributors to the success of the event. In his address, Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi expressed gratitude to the Excise and Taxation Department, the Education Department, the BDO Office Boniyar, DYSSO, ICDS and PHC Boniyar for their unwavering support.
He acknowledged the efforts of the students and staff of GMS Boniyar and the presence of GMS Boniyar students whose participation added youthful energy to the noble cause. Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi remarked, “Our strength lies in unity and today we have shown that when departments and individuals work together with sincerity, real awareness is born and meaningful change becomes possible.”
He further urged the students to not let the message of the day fade away with time but to carry it forward in their homes, mohallas and classrooms.
As the event wrapped up, the participants took a collective pledge to stay away from drugs and to contribute in spreading awareness. The programme successfully planted the seeds of consciousness among young minds and reminded the larger community of its role in this uphill yet noble battle.
The event at Boniyar on 14th July 2025 stands as a shining example of how grassroots level initiatives driven by committed individuals and supported by institutional strength, can pave the way toward a Nasha Mukt Bharat. The ripple effect of such efforts, when multiplied across districts and states, can indeed help India achieve a future free from the shadows of substance abuse.
