THANNAMANDI, Sep 16: The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) Committee of Government Degree College (GDC) Thannamandi, under the patronage of Principal Prof. (Dr.) Shamim Ahmed Azad, organised a sensitization programme to create awareness among students about the prevention of drug abuse and promote a healthy, responsible and drug-free society.
During the programme, Prof. Rumy Dar, Head, Department of English, interacted with students and sensitized them about the serious physical, psychological, social and academic consequences associated with drug abuse. She emphasised the importance of informed choices, self-discipline, peer support and constructive engagement among young people.
Prof. Rumy Dar encouraged students to create a positive environment for their personal growth through self-introspection and self-dialogue. She urged them to identify and avoid negative peer influences and show compassion towards people affected by substance abuse. She also suggested establishing confidential counselling cells to help students seek appropriate guidance and make informed decisions in life.
The programme was followed by the Presidential Address by Dr. Ather Aziz Raina, Convener, NMBA, who underscored the collective responsibility of educational institutions, teachers, students and society in combating substance abuse.
He encouraged students to become responsible ambassadors of the message of a drug-free society and contribute actively towards prevention and awareness within their communities. He stressed the importance of awareness, early intervention, positive social support and meaningful youth participation in the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
Dr. Raina also expressed gratitude to the special guests from the Department of Social Welfare, Rajouri, for their collaborative presence and support.
As an important component of the programme, a group pledge against drug abuse was administered by Prof. Rizwana Kousar, Head, Department of Kashmiri. Students and faculty members participated enthusiastically and reaffirmed their commitment to staying away from drugs and contributing towards a healthy and drug-free society.
Other committee members who contributed to the organisation of the programme included Dr. Nagina Kosser, Dr. Mohd Ashrif, Prof. Yasmeen Kouser, Dr. Shazia Poswal and Dr. Meenakshi Sharma.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from the college community to strengthen awareness, preventive measures and youth participation under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA).