The Department of Information and Public Relations in collaboration with Education Department, Health Department and Ladakh Police, Leh organised an awareness programme on ‘Drugs and Substance Abuse’ at St. Peter’s High School, Chuchot Yokma on July 4.

The programme is in continuation with the Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh’s concerted effort to address the pressing issue of drug menace. The department has been organising the awareness campaign on drug menace at various schools and colleges in Leh district.

Psychiatrist and Drug De-Addiction Specialist, SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Padma Angmo, Principal, St. Peter’s High School, Rev Father Biju Mathew, Vice –Principal, St. Peter’s High School, Sister Marina, Assistant Exhibition & Culture Officer, DIPR Leh, Assistant Information Officer, DIPR Leh, Culture Assistant DIPR Leh , teachers, staff and students of class 6-10 of St. Peter’s High School actively participated in this programme.

Two short films titled “Echoes of Redemption” and “Trapped” were screened during the awareness programme reflecting the realities of addiction, and its ill effect on individuals, families and societies.

Psychiatrist and Drug De-Addiction Specialist, SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Padma Angmo highlighted that the drug addiction impacts both physical and mental health.  Dr Padma further added that addiction to drugs further result in school dropouts, unemployment, organized crimes and other bad activities. She urged students to be cautious of drug peddlers who often target them easily.  She also stressed on the importance of making wise decisions as one wrong decision can have life changing consequences.

AE&CO, Stanzin Wangmo highlighted that the District Leh was recently awarded among the best performing districts at national level for its efforts in the Joint Action Plan on preventing drugs and substance abuse among children. She further urged students to avoid being swayed by those who try to get them to do drugs.

Later, an interaction session was held where students got to ask one on one questions to Psychiatrist Dr. Padma Angmo related to their studies, mental stress and other personal issues.