SRINAGAR: Khyber Cement has extended support to an initiative by the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) aimed at formulating Jammu and Kashmir’s first dedicated policy framework to tackle drug addiction and substance abuse.
A two-day conclave titled “Drug-Free Society: Call for Collective Action” held on May 4 and 5 at IUST brought together policymakers, medical experts, educators, law enforcement officials, youth representatives, civil society members and students to deliberate on strategies for addressing the growing drug abuse crisis in the region.
The workshop was organised by the Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis at IUST under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo and aligned with the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
According to organisers, the findings and recommendations emerging from the workshop will form the basis of a policy framework that IUST plans to formally submit to the government in the coming months.
Director of the Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis G N Itoo, along with senior administrators and experts, participated in the discussions focused on prevention, treatment, awareness, enforcement, education and community engagement.
Officials said the proposed document aims to address a longstanding gap, as Jammu and Kashmir currently lacks a dedicated policy framework to comprehensively tackle the issue of substance abuse.
Speaking on the occasion, Umar Tramboo, Director Corporate and Strategy at Khyber Cement, said the company’s responsibility extends beyond infrastructure development and includes contributing towards building a healthier and more resilient society.
He said supporting the initiative was in line with the company’s commitment towards social welfare and youth development.
Wasim Ahmed Khan, Chief Sales and Customer Relations at Khyber Cement, said the youth of Kashmir represent the foundation of the region’s future and combating substance abuse requires coordinated efforts from all sections of society.
He said the collaboration with IUST and other stakeholders seeks to strengthen grassroots awareness and create an environment where young people can thrive free from addiction.
Organisers said the forthcoming policy framework is expected to provide actionable recommendations and serve as a reference point for sustained and coordinated efforts by the government and stakeholders to combat drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
Khyber Cement said its support for the initiative is part of its broader engagement in youth empowerment, education, healthcare and grassroots sports programmes across the region.
