Kulgam, June 13: The speakers at a seminar here said drug abuse can have many short and long-term negative effects including physical and mental health problems, legal consequences, and impairment in many areas of a person’s life.
The seminar titled “Importance of Preventing Drug Abuse among Youth” was part of the South Asia Center for Peace and Peoples Empowerment’s (SACPPE) mission to educate people, especially the student community against the hazards of drug abuse. It was held in collaboration with the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO), Kulgam.
Speaking on the occasion, Ghulam Mustafa Khan, the Drug Control Officer of Anantnag/Kulgam, underscored the importance of creating awareness and providing education on drug abuse and illicit trafficking. “Knowledge and understanding are keys to preventing drug abuse and curbing the illegal drug trade,” he said, adding that most individuals do not become involved with substance abuse solely on the basis of personal characteristics.
“Rather, they are influenced by factors in the environment such as the rules and regulations of social institutions; community norms; mass media messages; and the accessibility of drugs. Effective prevention requires making appropriate modifications to the community at large,” Khan added.
Abrar Ahmad Kripak, the ARTO Kulgam emphasized the social and moral responsibility to prevent drug abuse. “This indicates the understanding that tackling drug abuse is not just a legal or enforcement issue but also a societal concern that requires active participation from everyone,” he said. Drug abuse can interfere with a student’s ability to be successful in attaining this goal by disrupting their ability to finish course work.”
Abdul Hamid Ganaie, the Excise and Taxation Officer for south Kashmir highlighted the efforts made in destroying illegal crops of poppy and cannabis. He, however, emphasized that true change can only be achieved through the cooperation and coordination of the general public.
Tariq Ahmad Dadsaru, Excise Inspector of Anantnag/Kulgam, emphasized on the role of citizens in curbing social problems, like drug abuse and said it requires a collective effort. “It reinforces the idea that everyone has a part to play in preventing and reducing drug abuse, irrespective of their professional roles or positions,” he said.
