Army to intensify ‘Sahi Rasta’ campaign against drugs, narcotics, terrorism

Srinagar, Feb 16: The Army has launched an intensified effort under the banner of the “Sahi Rasta” campaign, aimed at combating the rising drug menace, narcotics abuse, and terrorism in the Kashmir Valley.

The initiative, in collaboration with local communities, is designed to steer youth away from destructive paths, such as drug abuse and terrorism activity, by providing them with education, awareness, and support.

According to a senior officer, the campaign has yielded positive results so far, and the Army plans to ramp up its efforts once schools reopen in Kashmir. “The campaign has helped us in engaging with the youth, and we will intensify it once schools reopen in the Valley. We have seen encouraging results, and it’s having a positive impact on keeping the youth away from both drugs and terrorism,” the official said adding that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to restore peace and stability in Kashmir.

The “Sahi Rasta” campaign, which translates to “The Right Path,” focuses on conducting awareness programs, educational workshops, and community events throughout the Kashmir Valley. These programs aim to educate the younger generation about the dangers of drug abuse and the devastating effects of involvement in terrorism. The Army has been working closely with local leaders, religious figures, and community groups to ensure that the message reaches as many people as possible.

In Baramulla, senior Army officers, along with community leaders, including local imams, have been actively involved in spreading awareness. The focus has been on engaging with youth directly, offering them alternatives and guidance on how to stay away from the lure of drugs and extremist ideologies. “Imams and community leaders play a vital role in reaching out to the youth. Their involvement in this campaign is essential in guiding the younger generation towards a better and safer future,” the Army official said.

Kashmir has witnessed a sharp rise in drug abuse over the past few years, with narcotics often being smuggled in from across the border. The easy availability of drugs like heroin, charas (cannabis), and other synthetic narcotics has had a devastating impact on youth in the Valley. Authorities have expressed concern that many young people, particularly those facing socio-economic hardships, are being drawn into the drug trade or recruited by terrorist organizations as a means of escape from their struggles.

The Army’s intensified campaign comes as part of a broader push to address both the narcotic abuse problem and the ongoing threat of terrorism in Kashmir. Terrorist organisations, including those based in Pakistan, have been known to exploit young people, using them as pawns in their insurgency efforts. The Army believes that providing positive alternatives, such as education and vocational training, is key to countering both the drug epidemic and the allure of militant activities.

In addition to awareness programs, the army has been providing counseling and rehabilitation services to help those already caught in the web of addiction. These efforts are aimed at rehabilitating individuals and reintegrating them into society, thus creating a stronger, healthier community. “We want to help the youth understand the dangers of drugs and terrorism and give them the tools they need to lead a productive life,” the official added.

Army said that local residents have also shown support for the initiative, with many expressing hope that such campaigns will help their children avoid the pitfalls of drugs and violence. Many parents in the Valley have voiced concerns about the growing prevalence of drug abuse, which is seen as one of the main factors contributing to the rise in local militancy.