SRINAGAR: Sakeena Itoo on Friday chaired a high-level review meeting in Srinagar and directed the formulation of a comprehensive roadmap to prevent and detect drug abuse among students across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting, held at the Civil Secretariat, focused on strengthening de-addiction measures, mental health awareness and rehabilitation frameworks in the Union Territory. The Minister called for coordinated action involving the education, health and social welfare departments, along with schools, colleges, coaching centres, parents and civil society groups.
Senior officials including Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner Secretary Education Ram Niwas Sharma, directors of school education and health services from both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, and representatives from civil society organisations, private school associations and coaching centres attended the meeting.
The Minister directed the education and health departments to introduce structured awareness programmes in educational institutions aimed at early identification, counselling and rehabilitation of students vulnerable to substance abuse. She emphasised preventive intervention at the grassroots level to curb drug addiction.
She also instructed officials to ensure that all educational campuses remain free from drugs and tobacco use, stating that institutions play a key role in shaping responsible citizens.
Highlighting enforcement measures, the Minister directed strict action against shops selling tobacco products near schools and colleges in violation of existing laws. She asked departments to intensify inspections and ensure compliance with anti-tobacco regulations.
The Minister further called for regular counselling sessions, awareness drives and community outreach programmes in collaboration with schools, youth organisations and healthcare professionals.
Officials also discussed strengthening de-addiction and rehabilitation infrastructure, with emphasis on improving access to counselling and treatment services for affected individuals and families.
During the meeting, Sushil Razdan said early detection and responsible prescription practices were essential in addressing substance abuse, while civil society representatives and private education stakeholders suggested community-level interventions and awareness initiatives.
The government reiterated its commitment to tackling drug abuse and promoting a coordinated, multi-sector response to the issue across Jammu and Kashmir.
