Jammu: In a significant step towards countering the growing menace of drug addiction in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo Friday held a high-level consultation with Member NITI Aayog, Dr V.K. Paul, seeking expert guidance to evolve a comprehensive, effective and sustainable strategy to combat substance abuse across the UT.The consultation session brought together leading national-level experts from AIIMS New Delhi and PGIMER Chandigarh, besides senior officers and health administrators from J&K. The meeting was steered by the Secretary, Health & Medical Education (H&ME), and attended by the Managing Director, National Health Mission; Director SKIMS; Principals of Government Medical Colleges; and Heads of Departments of Psychiatry from GMC Srinagar and GMC Jammu.
Addressing the gathering Chief Secretary addressed the serious issue of drug abuse in the Union Territory (UT), outlining the ongoing initiatives and collaborative efforts by various agencies to combat this challenge. He detailed a multi-faceted strategy based on five key pillars: strict enforcement, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns, counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation. This approach aims to provide immediate intervention and facilitate long-term recovery for victims. Emphasizing a community-centric approach, the Chief Secretary sought expert advice from Dr. Paul on enhancing the network of counsellors at grassroots levels, including educational institutions and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). He highlighted the necessity of a robust rehabilitation framework, supported by effective monitoring mechanisms to prevent relapse and help reintegrated individuals lead dignified lives. Dr. V.K. Paul praised the proactive measures of the J&K Administration, noting its focus on holistic rehabilitation and community mobilization rather than just treatment. He pointed out that the proposed model, which emphasizes counselling and rehabilitation, adds sustainability and innovation to the overall strategy. Dr. Paul also referenced the successful substance abuse management model from Himachal Pradesh, suggesting that its structured treatment network could be adapted to meet the specific needs of Jammu and Kashmir. He assured the UT Administration of full support from NITI Aayog, with a dedicated team of experts ready to assist in developing a comprehensive action plan. The core focus areas of this strategy include IEC activities, improved patient services, structured treatment protocols, and systematic rehabilitation for recovered individuals. Experts from AIIMS and PGIMER contributed valuable insights on clinical treatment protocols and best practices for managing substance use disorders. The consultation represents a significant step in enhancing Jammu and Kashmir’s institutional response to drug addiction, reflecting the administration’s commitment to public health and a healthier future for its citizens.
