Take inspiration from martyrs to combat drug menace: Dy CM to youth

Kathua, Mar 23: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary on Sunday called upon the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of young martyrs like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev in combating drug abuse.
Addressing a gathering at Ram Leela Ground here on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day, he emphasised the need for the younger generation to resist the growing drug menace and learn from the devastating impact it has had in the neighbouring state.
The event was attended by former MP and Minister Lal Singh; former MLA and minister Babu Singh; former MLA and minister Dr Manohar Lal Sharma and several other representatives.
Highlighting the supreme sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters, the Deputy CM said youth must emulate their patriotism and commitment to the nation. He urged them to choose constructive lifestyles, stay away from substance abuse, and contribute positively to society. “We must honour our heroes by playing a constructive role in nation-building, raising our voices against all challenges, and striving to take our country to new heights,” he said.
Calling for collective action against social evils, he urged the public to reflect on the direction in which society is headed and work together for a healthier, drug-free community.
Reaffirming India’s rich heritage upheld by saints, rishis, peers and faqirs, he encouraged future generations to preserve the nation’s integrity and diversity, which will make India a unique and thriving democracy.
Choudhary highlighted the urgent need to curb drug trafficking, particularly in the border district Kathua. “The threat of drug abuse from the neighbouring state is looming large over Kathua. We must take a united stand and uproot this menace from our society,” he said. He called upon all sections of society to pledge their commitment to fighting this crisis.
He underlined the government’s resolve to curb illegal mining in Jammu and Kashmir. “Illegal mining will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those who attempt to exploit our resources,” he asserted.
Earlier, the Deputy Chief Minister accompanied by senior officers of R&B inspected the ongoing construction work on the Juthana Bridge, a crucial infrastructure project under the Central Road Fund (CRF).
The 500-metre pre-stressed concrete double-lane bridge, along with its 1,875-metre approach roads, has been allotted a cost of Rs 3,120 lakh. Emphasising the importance of maintaining high-quality standards, he directed the executing agencies to strictly adhere to the approved Detailed Project Report (DPR) and warned that any deviations or irregularities would not be tolerated.
Once completed, the bridge is expected to benefit approximately 10,000 to 15,000 people, significantly improving connectivity and easing transportation in the region.
The Deputy CM also visited the Sanji Morh-Khanpur road, where residents raised concerns about water logging and the need for proper drainage. In response, he instructed XEN Hiranagar to construct an adequate drainage system, incorporating suitable land as agreed upon by the local community.