Hope blossoms in Kulgam’s war on drugs

Kulgam, Oct 26: Once notorious for rampant poppy cultivation and rising opioid abuse, south Kashmir’s Kulgam district is emerging as a model in Jammu and Kashmir’s fight against drugs. Officials claim significant progress in curbing cultivation, dismantling peddling networks, and rehabilitating addicts.

According to official data, poppy cultivation in the district fell dramatically from 738 kanals in 2023 to just 49 kanals in 2024. Under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan (Drug-Free J&K Campaign), the administration achieved “zero poppy cultivation” by 2025.

The turnaround was driven by Project Rehnuma, launched in 2023, which combines strict enforcement with awareness campaigns, rehabilitation, and alternative livelihood support. “The goal was not only to eliminate poppy but also to offer people sustainable options,” a senior district official said.Enforcement and Crackdown

Between January and September 2025, 59 FIRs were registered and 72 drug peddlers arrested. Authorities seized 17 properties worth Rs 4.17 crore in 2024 and four more worth Rs 1.91 crore this year. Regular road checkpoints, raids, and surveillance dismantled several supply chains, officials said.

Two helplines support the campaign: one operated by the District Drug De-Addiction Centre (DDAC) provides counselling and rehabilitation, while another, managed by the Additional Deputy Commissioner’s office, allows residents to report drug peddling and poppy cultivation via WhatsApp or phone.

Awareness Push

Over 400 awareness activities, including seminars, debates, street plays, and rallies, reached more than 28,000 people across schools, colleges, and villages. Religious leaders delivered over 450 anti-drug sermons in mosques and local gatherings. “Faith-based outreach proved effective in reshaping community attitudes,” officials said.

 Regulating Pharmacies

Authorities moved to curb diversion of psychotropic drugs. All pharmacies were brought under 100% CCTV coverage and computerized billing, prescription registers made mandatory, and 19 licenses suspended for non-compliance. Officials called this a major step in closing illegal drug channels.

 Rehabilitation and Recovery

At the heart of Kulgam’s efforts is the DDAC, now a regional rehabilitation hub attracting patients from nine districts. Since 2022, over 650 patients have been fully rehabilitated, with 4,000 receiving outpatient care. The centre conducted more than 7,000 counselling sessions and 1,000 family interventions. Many recovered patients now serve as peer counsellors and youth motivators, while vocational training helps others find employment or start small businesses.

 From Poppy Fields to Vegetables

Farmers have shifted from poppy cultivation to vegetables, maize, and chillies. Abdul Wahab reported earning an additional ₹46,000 after converting his poppy fields. Zahid Ahmad built a successful chilli and vegetable business, and several villages now hold “Poppy-Free Model Village” recognition.

Stories of Recovery

The campaign’s impact extends beyond agriculture. Aqib Ahmad (name changed) overcame addiction, resumed studies, and now motivates others. Similarly, Imran (name changed) from Shopian restarted his business and mentors youth. Another former addict now volunteers in awareness drives, sharing his journey.

Officials say Kulgam’s model could guide other districts facing similar challenges. “This is not just about enforcement,” a senior officer said. “It’s about changing lives — of farmers, families, and former addicts.”

With enforcement continuing, awareness growing, and rehabilitation expanding, Kulgam’s fight against drugs stands out as a rare story of success in a region long battling addiction and despair.