An awareness program on "Drug Abuse & Drug Addiction" under the banner of "Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan" was held on June 26 in Zanskar.

The event was organised by the administration of Zanskar Sub Division in collaboration with all the departments of Zanskar Sub Division, including GMDC Zanskar, Youth and Sports, Higher Secondary School, Tehsil, Police, and Tourism, Zanskar.

The Abhiyaan saw great participation from students and employees of Zanskar. The event commenced with a rally from the Tehsil office Zanskar and culminated at Dak Bungalow Zanskar, with participants raising slogans against drug abuse and displaying pamphlets.

The rally was flagged off by Talib Hussain NT, Deputy Magistrate Zanskar, in the presence of the SHO, ZPEO, BDO, ZEO, and principals. Later, an awareness program was organized at Tourist Dak Bungalow Zanskar.

Mohd Ishaq, Principal GMDC, Zanskar, emphasized the significance of the program, highlighting how drug use often starts as recreational experimentation but can lead to severe addiction and harmful health effects. He stressed that drug addiction is a disease affecting both the brain and behavior and urged everyone to stay away from such substances. He commended the collaborative effort of all the departments in addressing and raising awareness about this critical issue.

Falzong Angmo and Stanzin Palzom, students of the college, also shared their valuable insights on the subject, while Dr. Syed Anayat from CHC Padum spoke at length about the menace of drug addiction. He elaborated on various types of substances like hypnotics, hallucinogens, and stimulants and their addictive nature.

Konchok, ZEO, advised the audience to educate themselves about drug abuse and drug addiction and act as ambassadors in disseminating and spreading awareness to the public.

Talib Hussain NT (Deputy Zonal Magistrate Zanskar) acknowledged the successful conclusion of the program and encouraged students to continue spreading awareness in their communities.