Srinagar: The University of Kashmir on Sunday joined the nationwide “GenZ Against Addiction – Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan” with an awareness programme organised by the Department of Students’ Welfare at Gandhi Bhawan.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, who presided over the programme, said educational institutions have an important role in raising awareness about substance abuse and appreciated the Department of Students’ Welfare for organising outreach programmes within the university and in the community.
Referring to the nationwide campaign, she expressed hope that the Prime Minister’s message would encourage young people to take an active role in combating drug abuse. She urged students to spread awareness among their families, friends and communities and said building a drug-free society required collective participation.
The programme began with a prayer followed by a welcome address by Dean Students’ Welfare Prof. Seema Singh, who highlighted the role of educational institutions in promoting healthy lifestyles among youth. The event was coordinated by Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal, while University Cultural Officer Dr. Shahid Ali Khan conducted the proceedings.
Participants took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge, administered by the Vice-Chancellor, reaffirming their commitment to remain free from intoxicating substances and to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
The gathering later joined the Prime Minister’s live virtual address, in which he called for a nationwide movement against drug abuse and urged young people to become ambassadors of a drug-free India by promoting awareness in educational institutions and communities.
Among those present were Dean, School of Arts, Languages and Literature Prof. Aijaz Ahmad Sheikh, Director, Centre of Central Asian Studies Prof. Wahid Nasrullah, Chief Proctor Prof. Imtiyaz Ahmad, University Librarian Dr. Fayaz Ahmad, Head, Department of Sanskrit Prof. Mehraj-ud-Din, National Service Scheme (NSS) Coordinator Dr. Waqar Ahmad, Medical Officer Dr. Suraya, Director, North Campus Dr. Sheikh Ghulam Ahmad, wardens, faculty members, NSS volunteers and students.
According to the university, the programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a pledge by participants to continue spreading awareness against substance abuse. It said the nationwide campaign was held at more than 10,000 locations across the country, with over one crore youth participating through the MY Bharat platform.
