JAMMU, Sep 1: The Excise Department, in collaboration with the Floriculture Department, Jammu, organised a mega Anti-Drug Awareness Camp at Bagh-e-Bahu Garden under the theme “Art Against Drug Addiction”, using theatre, cartoons and music to spread awareness among young people about the dangers of substance abuse.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Cluster University Jammu, and Government Higher Secondary School, Bahu.
As part of the awareness campaign, Dugger Manch presented a Nukkad Natak titled “Nashye Di Maar”. The short play, performed by Padam Shri awardee Mohan Singh and his group, captivated the audience while highlighting the devastating impact of drug addiction on individuals, families and society.
Another theatre group, Azad Parinde, presented “Karme Da Fal”, depicting the harmful consequences of drug abuse. Veteran theatre actors Madan Rangeela and Janak Khajuria, along with Mohit Chib and Gourav, performed in the play.
A major attraction of the programme was a series of anti-drug cartoons by renowned cartoonist Manoj Chopra. The cartoons, displayed before the students, used humour and visual storytelling to convey a strong message against drug abuse. Merchandise featuring the cartoons and anti-drug slogans was also released during the event.
The release was carried out in the presence of Vaibhav Kohli, Excise Commissioner; Rumalo Ram, Padam Shri awardee; Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Director Floriculture; Vikrant Kumar, Joint Director; Arvind Kotwal, retired JKAS officer; and youth icons Sars Bharti and RJ Juhie.
Adding a musical dimension to the campaign, Kunwar Langer, winner of Display Your Talent, presented a Music Mashup, while Sars Bharti performed “Bawe Wali Mata Bhaint”, engaging the audience through music and cultural expression.
Addressing the gathering, Vaibhav Kohli, Excise Commissioner, emphasised the importance of using art and culture as powerful tools for combating drug abuse. He exhorted the youth to firmly say no to drugs and extend support to those struggling to overcome addiction.
Kohli reiterated the Government’s commitment to the vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat and promoting healthy and productive lifestyles among the youth. He stressed that collective participation, awareness and positive engagement of young people are essential to building a drug-free society.