Encourages students to prioritise mental well-being alongside studies
Calls for collective action to tackle youth drug addiction crisis
Jammu, Dec 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today emphasized the growing pressure on the youth, particularly the unrealistic expectations surrounding academic excellence, which he believes deprives them of their childhood and joy.
Speaking at the Amar Ujala’s Bhavviya Shatra Samman event, held at the Convention Center in Jammu, he urged students to embrace a well-rounded approach to life that includes learning, physical activity, and reading beyond textbooks.
The event, organised to honour meritorious students from high school and intermediate classes, was attended by Ministers Javed Ahmad Rana and Satish Sharma, Chief Minister’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Principal Secretary of School Education, Executive Editor of Amar Ujala Indu Shekhar Pancholi, along with senior officials, students, and their families.
Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah, who was the chief guest, said, “For us, time is passing, but life is a continuous journey of learning.” He stressed that education is not limited to academic institutions but extends to life experiences, urging the youth to learn from others’ mistakes and guidance.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister personally presented certificates and medals to the awardees, emphasizing resilience as key to success. “Nothing in life is permanent—neither bad times nor good times. What truly matters is how we use the present moment. Learn from the past, prepare for the future, and live in the now,” he advised the students.
Highlighting the issue of academic pressure, Abdullah expressed concern over extreme academic cut-offs, often exceeding 98%, which, he said, are creating unhealthy and unrealistic expectations. “This pressure steals your childhood—something you can never get back. We, the older generation, must ensure we don’t prematurely take away your innocence and joy,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister also encouraged students to engage in outdoor activities, stressing their positive impact on both health and academic focus. He advocated for developing a habit of reading, noting its role in broadening perspectives and alleviating stress.
Abdullah also addressed the pressing issue of drug addiction among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledging the rise in cases while urging awardees to help others struggling with addiction. “Addiction is not a weakness, it is a disease. If you see someone struggling, encourage them to seek treatment,” he said, highlighting the importance of collective action in tackling this crisis.
On the topic of climate change, Abdullah reflected on his childhood memories and contrasted them with the current environmental challenges, particularly erratic weather patterns. “The world we inherited from our ancestors was far better than the one we’re passing on to you. We have a responsibility to act now, to begin reversing the damage we’ve caused,” he said.
Concluding his address, Omar Abdullah shared a powerful lesson on perseverance: “No matter how difficult or dark things may seem, you must never give in.” Drawing on his own political career, he encouraged the students to remain resilient and face challenges with determination. The event ended with the Chief Minister congratulating the students and their families for their hard work and achievements, while urging them to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.
