Bandipora : A cultural exchange programme under the IEC campaign against drug abuse was on Thursday held at Bandipora.
The porgramme was organized by Ali’s Sports Academy Bandipora in collaboration with District Administration Bandipora.
The programme was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri and was attended by Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar – Brand Ambassador Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, along with a group of 35 students and teachers from Surat, Gujarat, who are on a six-day tour to explore different locations of Kashmir.
While interacting with the students, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the significance of cultural exchange programmes in promoting national integration and mutual understanding among different regions.
He also shared his insights and experiences of the tourism sector, encouraging students to explore the potential of tourism as a tool for economic growth and cultural exchange.
He said that such programmes are aimed at engaging students in various cultural and interactive sessions to build awareness and encourage positive social behaviour.
The Deputy Commissioner further emphasized the importance of youth engagement in shaping a drug-free society. He urged the students to become ambassadors of positive change by spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and encourage their peers to adopt a healthy and productive lifestyle.
Speaking on the occasion, Faisal Ali Dar, Brand Ambassador Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, said that drug abuse is not just a local issue but a challenge affecting the entire society. He stressed the need for collective action and cooperation at all levels to eradicate this menace, urging the youth to take responsibility and actively participate in spreading awareness and supporting those affected by drug addiction.
Earlier, the students participated in a cultural interaction programme at Salvatore International School, Shilvat, where they interacted with local students providing a platform for exchanging cultural values, promoting mutual understanding, and strengthening bonds between students from different parts of the country.
