What began as a routine awareness programme on drug de-addiction at Higher Secondary School Fatehgarh evolved into a serious discussion on a growing threat that experts believe extends far beyond public health and enters the realm of national security.
Organized under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan by Civil Defence Baramulla and YBPF, with support from Dagger Division Baramulla, the programme brought together students, psychologists, and civil defence officials to address the alarming rise in substance abuse among youth.
The auditorium was filled with students from Classes 11 and 12 who listened attentively as experts explained the physical, psychological, and social consequences of drug addiction. The session aimed not only to educate students about the dangers of narcotics but also to encourage them to become active participants in the fight against substance abuse.
The expert panel, comprising Senior Psychologist Ms. Ruheela, Deputy Divisional Warden Civil Defence Bashir Ahmad, and Sector Warden Ayoub, highlighted the importance of early awareness and preventive intervention. They stressed that addiction often begins with experimentation and peer pressure, making education and vigilance crucial tools in prevention.
However, the most striking message of the day came from Dr. Anayat Mir, Chief Warden Civil Defence Baramulla, who urged society to rethink the way it views the drug menace. Addressing students and participants, Dr. Mir said that drug addiction can no longer be treated solely as a medical or social issue. He warned that emerging trends, particularly in vulnerable and border regions, suggest that narcotics are increasingly being used as instruments to weaken communities and undermine social stability.
Describing the phenomenon as a component of hybrid warfare, Dr. Mir said the destruction of youth potential, erosion of social values, and exploitation of vulnerable populations can collectively weaken a society from within. He noted that while conventional threats often target borders, narcotics silently target the nation’s most valuable asset—its young generation.
“Protecting the nation’s youth is as important as protecting its frontiers,” he emphasized, adding that dismantling narcotics networks and preserving social cohesion must be viewed as critical elements of national security. He cautioned that failure to act decisively could allow a silent epidemic to grow into a long-term threat to societal resilience and national integrity.
The programme concluded with an interactive session during which students engaged openly with experts, asking questions and sharing concerns about substance abuse and its impact on society. The discussion underscored the importance of collective responsibility, informed decision-making, and community participation in creating a drug-free future.
As the event ended, one message stood out clearly: the battle against drugs is no longer merely a health campaign—it is a societal mission requiring the participation of families, schools, communities, and institutions alike.
