Baramulla, Aug 21: The Zamin Foundation, in collaboration with the Drug Control Department Baramulla, organised a significant awareness and felicitation program under the banner of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA).
A statement of the Zamin Foundation issued here said that the event brought together healthcare professionals, drug control authorities, and chemists’ associations from across north Kashmir to reinforce a united commitment towards building a drug-free society.
The programme began with opening remarks by Sheikh Idrees, who expressed gratitude for the collaborative opportunity and emphasized the importance of a joint front against the drug menace.
A short film on the objectives and spirit of NMBA in the context of Jammu & Kashmir was screened, setting a thoughtful tone for the proceedings. Dr Zaffer Ahmed, Assistant Drug Controller Baramulla, delivered the keynote address, lauding the Zamin Foundation and other stakeholders for their tireless work in raising awareness and preventing substance abuse. He underscored the importance of community participation in safeguarding youth.
Technical insights were shared by Dr Tajamul, Head of the Psychiatric Department, who elaborated on the nature of addiction and the role of a multi-disciplinary approach involving psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors.
He stressed the urgency of curbing the illegal sale of prescription drugs.
Adding to the concern, Feroze Ahmed Bhat, Drug Control Officer for Kupwara and Handwara, revealed that around 11 lakh tablets of Pregabalin were illegally sold in Kupwara in 2024, before the malpractice was busted with the help of a whistleblower.
He highlighted the importance of strict record-keeping by chemists to prevent misuse. The perspectives of the chemists’ fraternity were represented by their association leaders:
Muhammad Ashraf Ganai, President, Baramulla Chemists Association, thanked stakeholders for their role in combating the menace. Zahid Hussain Shah, President, Kanthbagh Chemists Association, urged parents to monitor children’s activities and habits to keep them away from addiction.
Altaf, President, Handwara Chemists Association, admitted past lapses in record-keeping but assured full compliance with new norms, including CCTV and monitoring software.
He shared a moving anecdote on the social costs of substance abuse.
On the occasion, Salim Wani, Programme Manager, Zamin Foundation, presented the ongoing initiatives of the foundation, with a special focus on substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation.
The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony, recognizing the contributions of Chemists and Druggists Associations from Baramulla, Kupwara, and Handwara for their ethical practices and commitment to public welfare.
The event marked a strong step forward in the fight against drug abuse, showcasing the synergy between government agencies, healthcare experts, civil society, and chemists in protecting the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
