International day against drug abuse observed in Poonch

Poonch, June 26: To mark the International Day against Drug Abuse-2024, the Department of Social Welfare on the direction of Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Yasin M Choudhary organised a series of events across Poonch district to raise awareness and promote the message of a "Drug-Free India."

The day-long programmes commenced with a plantation drive at City Forest Poonch.

Later, the Social Welfare Department, in collaboration with the Forest Department, flagged off Hiking expedition at City Forest Poonch. The Hiking Expedition was flagged Off by District Social Welfare Officer, Wakeel Ahmed Bhaat and Divisional Forest Officer (SF), Naveed Iqbal in presence of Prof.Sarfraz Mir, Prof Aurangzeb, Chairman Child Labour and other officers, official.

During the day-long programme, numerous activities including, Public rallies, awareness programmes and cricket matches were held in Mandi, Mendhar, and Seri Khawaja sanai and Surankote involving over 1200-1500 youth and members of civil society.

Around five thousand stickers were pasted on public transport vehicles, carrying the message "Say No to Drugs."

An awareness rally, under the "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan" theme was taken out at High School Sanai.

Counseling sessions for youth, a painting competition, and a signature campaign were also conducted at the DC Office, SDM Office Mendhar, and Surankote with huge participation of youth and public.

Around 200-250 youth participated in the hiking activity, including young Budding Taekwondo players.

A media awareness van was flagged off by Additional Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik, which will traverse across the District to disseminate the message of NMBA campaign.

Anti-Drug pledge ceremonies were also held as part of the programme.

The District Social Welfare Officer appealed to the public to say "No to Drugs" and spread the message of a drug-free society.

The programme was held under the overall supervision and direction of Deputy Commissioner, who urged the public to extend their cooperation in making this campaign a great success.