SRINAGAR: Emphasizing the crucial role of sports and physical activity in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Wednesday said that sports have the power to transform lives by steering youth away from drugs and towards a healthier, disciplined and productive future.
The Minister was addressing an awareness programme organized at International Delhi Public School (IDPS), Srinagar, under the theme “Say Yes to Sports, No to Drugs.” The event was aimed at sensitizing students and youth about the harmful consequences of substance abuse while promoting sports as a powerful instrument for character building, physical fitness, leadership development and social empowerment.
The programme was organized under the aegis of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, a nationwide initiative dedicated to creating awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and mobilizing communities, educational institutions and youth towards building a drug-free society. The event brought together students, teachers, policymakers, sports administrators and civil society representatives to reinforce the message that sports and healthy lifestyles remain among the most effective tools for preventing drug abuse among young people.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma lauded the initiative taken by the school administration and highlighted the multifaceted benefits of sports. He observed that participation in sports not only contributes to physical fitness and mental well-being but also instills discipline, determination, teamwork, resilience and a spirit of healthy competition among young people.
The Minister said that engaging youth in constructive and purposeful activities such as sports is one of the most effective ways to counter the growing menace of drug addiction. He maintained that sports provide young people with a positive outlet for their energy and aspirations while helping them develop confidence, focus and a sense of responsibility.
Referring to the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Sharma said that the campaign’s goals can only be achieved through sustained public participation, continuous awareness generation and meaningful engagement of youth. He stressed that sports offer an ideal platform for channelizing the energy of young people towards constructive pursuits and away from the dangers associated with drug abuse and addiction.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a vibrant sporting ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the government is focused on strengthening sports infrastructure, expanding opportunities for participation and identifying and nurturing sporting talent from the grassroots level.
Highlighting the responsibility of educational institutions, Sharma said schools and colleges have a vital role in shaping responsible citizens and creating awareness against social evils such as drug abuse. He emphasized that institutions must continue to encourage participation in sports and extracurricular activities to help students develop healthy habits and positive life choices.
“Drug addiction poses a serious threat to society, particularly to our younger generation. We must collectively work to create awareness, provide guidance and encourage healthy lifestyles. Sports offer a positive direction, helping youth channel their energy towards achievement, excellence and nation-building,” the Minister said.
Calling upon students to actively participate in the fight against drug abuse, Sharma urged them to become ambassadors of the anti-drug campaign and inspire their peers to adopt healthy and constructive lifestyles. He stressed the need for a sustained and collaborative approach involving schools, parents, civil society organizations and government agencies to effectively tackle the issue.
MLA Hazratbal, Salman Sagar, also addressed the gathering and underscored the urgent need for effective and coordinated measures to curb the growing menace of drug abuse. He emphasized that awareness campaigns, community participation and proactive youth engagement are essential to protect future generations from the harmful effects of narcotics and substance abuse.
Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, spoke about the various initiatives being undertaken by the department to promote sports and youth engagement across Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that sports have emerged as a powerful platform for empowering youth, fostering leadership qualities and building a drug-free society. He also stressed the importance of integrating awareness programmes with sporting activities to maximize outreach and impact among young people.
Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, highlighted the efforts being made by the Sports Council to expand sporting opportunities and encourage greater participation of youth, particularly at the grassroots level. She emphasized that sports can serve as a catalyst for positive social change and play a significant role in keeping young people away from harmful influences.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, also addressed the gathering and called upon students to make informed life choices, stay away from drugs and contribute towards building a healthy and progressive society.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Chamber of Industries represented by its President Tariq Bedaba, Chairman IDPS Shoukat Choudhary, Babur Choudhary, students, teachers, sports enthusiasts and members of civil society.
Various awareness materials, presentations and educational content highlighting the ill effects of drug abuse and the benefits of sports and physical activity were showcased during the programme. Participants were encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles, engage actively in sports and contribute towards the collective goal of building a drug-free and socially responsible society.
The programme concluded with a strong call for collective action, with speakers emphasizing that sustained awareness, community participation and greater youth engagement through sports are essential for effectively combating drug abuse and securing a healthier future for the younger generation of Jammu and Kashmir.
