SRINAGAR: Thousands of people joined a mega anti-drug padyatra in Ganderbal district on Friday, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, as part of the ongoing “Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan” aimed at tackling substance abuse across the Union Territory.
The Lieutenant Governor arrived at Madri Meherban Stadium in Ganderbal, where he was received by senior civil and police officials, public representatives, youth groups, students and members of social organisations before leading the march.
The padyatra witnessed participation from people across various sections of society, who marched along designated routes carrying placards and raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The event reflected a collective call for strengthening community participation in addressing the drug menace.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor urged citizens, particularly young people, to stay away from narcotics and actively contribute towards building a healthier and drug-free society. He emphasised that sustained public engagement is essential to eliminate substance abuse.
Officials said the padyatra is part of the administration’s wider 100-day anti-drug campaign, which focuses on awareness generation, community mobilisation and efforts to curb drug trafficking networks, including those linked to narcoterror funding concerns.
Security arrangements were in place as the march proceeded peacefully. The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with participants and appreciated their response to the campaign.
The event concluded with participants taking a pledge to support efforts against drug addiction and promote awareness at the grassroots level, marking another step in the government’s ongoing drive to establish a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
