KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, April 30: As part of the ambitious “Under 100 Days Nasha Mukt J&K” campaign, SKIMS Medical College Bemina carried its anti-drug awareness initiative to the grassroots level by organizing an engaging awareness and sensitization program at a coaching institute in Baghat, Srinagar, on Thursday. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 130 students, including both boys and girls preparing for competitive examinations.
The session opened with trainee doctors Zara and Farhaan setting the tone for the day by addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by aspirants—stress management.
They highlighted how academic pressure often pushes students toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use, and emphasized the importance of adopting positive strategies such as mindfulness, disciplined routines, and peer support. Their message strongly underlined that temporary relief through harmful substances can lead to long-term consequences.
Adding depth to the discussion, Professor Ashfaq from the Department of Community Medicine delivered a compelling talk describing substance abuse as “a trap with an easy entry but a difficult exit.” He urged students to recognize early warning signs and resist peer pressure, stressing that refusing cigarettes is often the first crucial step in saying no to drugs altogether. His practical insights resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom are at a vulnerable stage of life.
A particularly impactful segment of the program was led by Clinical Psychologist Kaunsar Sidiq, who conducted an interactive session on the psychological and social impact of substance abuse. Drawing from real-life experiences at the Addiction Treatment Facility of SKIMS Medical College Bemina, she shared case studies that illustrated how addiction can derail promising futures while also emphasizing that recovery is possible with timely intervention and support. Her session struck an emotional chord, making the issue more relatable and urgent for the young attendees.
The program also featured a lively question-and-answer session, during which students openly discussed their concerns, misconceptions, and challenges related to stress and substance use. Experts from SKIMS Medical College provided thoughtful, evidence-based responses, creating a safe space for dialogue and learning.
The event concluded with trainee doctor Zaid delivering insightful closing remarks, encouraging students to stay focused on their goals and maintain a strong sense of purpose. He emphasized that clarity of direction in life acts as a protective factor against distractions, including substance abuse.
Organizers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach of the campaign, announcing plans to conduct similar awareness programs across other educational institutions in the region. These efforts are being carried out under the guidance and dynamic leadership of Principal Fazlul Qadir Parray, whose vision continues to drive community-oriented health initiatives.
The event not only educated students but also inspired them to become ambassadors of a drug-free society, marking another meaningful step toward the broader goal of a “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir.”
