Doda : to combat the menace of drug abuse, a series of IEC (Information, Education & Communication) campaigns were organized on Tuesday across all 17 blocks of Doda district under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh, and the supervision of District Social Welfare Officer(Nodal Officer IEC Campaign) Tariq Qazi.
The awareness programs aimed to educate students, youth, and local communities about the harmful effects of drug use and to encourage a healthier, addiction-free lifestyle.
The campaigns were held at Assar, Bhagwah, Bhalla, Bhaderwah, Bharat, Changa, Chilly Pingal, Dali Udyanpur, Ghat, Gandoh, Gundna, Kahara, Kastigarh, Marmat, Thathri, Phagsoo, and Doda (Ghat) blocks, covering both rural and semi-urban areas.
Each block organized targeted events in schools, panchayats, and community halls to ensure maximum outreach. The entire district witnessed large gatherings where community members, especially the youth, raised their voices in unison against the drug menace. Activities included awareness rallies, street plays, poster-making, slogan-writing competitions, and lectures by health experts, educators, and motivational speakers. Resource persons emphasized the importance of early intervention, parental support, and mental health awareness in the fight against substance abuse.
One of the key events was held at Government Higher Secondary School Bhalra, located in Panchayat Misrata, Block Bhaderwah. The campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, staff, and local residents, who were sensitized about the importance of saying no to drugs and yes to life. Interactive sessions and motivational talks formed a crucial part of the initiative, empowering youth with knowledge and confidence to lead a drug-free life.
Similarly, another impactful IEC campaign was conducted at Panchayat Lower Behota in Block Marmat, where community members, especially the youth, came together to support the cause. The sessions highlighted the social, mental, and physical consequences of substance abuse and emphasized the role of education, awareness, and community support in preventing drug addiction.
An enthusiastic IEC campaign was also held at Panchayat Chanser in Block Changa, which drew active involvement from school children, teachers, PRI members, and local citizens. Resource persons delivered informative lectures and used visual aids to illustrate the devastating impact of drug addiction on families and society. Skits and slogan-writing activities were organized to creatively engage the youth in spreading the anti-drug message. The event concluded with a collective pledge by all participants to work towards building a drug-free society and to act as responsible citizens by spreading awareness within their communities.
These campaigns reflect the administration’s strong commitment to protecting the future of the district’s youth. The IEC initiative continues to serve as a beacon of hope, guiding young minds towards positive and productive pathways while fostering community responsibility and resilience against drug abuse.
