Education dept, Police launch anti-drug awareness campaign

Poonch, July 15: In a united front against the alarming rise in drug abuse among youth, the Education Department Collaboration with Poonch Police, organized a powerful and insightful Anti-Drug Awareness Programme across the district and start at Government Boys Higher Secondary School mandi aimed at educating students about the devastating consequences of substance abuse.A statement issued here said that the programme was held under the leadership of Anwar Khan, Principal of GHSS Mandi, and supported by SSP Poonch Shafkat Wani and Chief Education Officer Iftkhar Ali Shah. The event saw an enthusiastic turnout of students, teachers, and local dignitaries. It formed part of the broader anti-drug campaign initiated by the District Police to build a drug-free future through education and community engagement. Prominent speakers included Jalal Din Fani (District Reserve Inspector), Dr. Nargis (Incharge, Drug Rehabilitation Centre Poonch), and Tafeez Khan (District Counsellor and Incharge, Drug De-Addiction Centre Poonch). Together, they provided students with a comprehensive understanding of drug abuse from legal, psychological, social, and medical perspectives. Jalal Din Fani highlighted the serious legal consequences of drug possession and trafficking, as well as the broader social and economic harm caused by addiction. Dr. Nargis addressed the medical aspects, such as symptoms, behavioural signs, and available rehabilitation options. Tafeez Khan spoke passionately about the emotional toll of addiction and emphasized the importance of early intervention, peer support, and youth leadership. Inspector Sham Lal, SHO of Police Station Mandi, also addressed the audience, urging students to remain alert and report suspicious activities. He stressed the importance of community cooperation in dismantling drug networks and ensuring safer environments.