Srinagar : District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, in continuation of its ongoing awareness drive on the eve of National Youth Day, scheduled to be observed on January 12, 2026, organized an extensive awareness programme Saturday, marking the 4th day of the sustained campaign.
The programme was held at the Psychiatric Hospital, Ranawari, Srinagar, reflecting DLSA Srinagar’s focused and compassionate outreach to sensitive and socially significant institutions.
The awareness programme was conducted under the NALSA DAWN (Drug Awareness and Wellness Navigation–For a Drug Free India) Scheme, 2025, with a special emphasis on mental health, substance abuse prevention, and legal empowerment of youth and vulnerable sections.
Holding the programme at a psychiatric hospital added deeper relevance to the initiative, as it underscored the intrinsic link between mental well-being, social support systems, and legal awareness in combating drug abuse and related challenges.
During the programme, Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) of DLSA Srinagar actively sensitized patients, hospital staff and visitors about the harmful effects of drug abuse, the importance of early intervention, and the availability of legal aid and welfare-oriented schemes. The interaction-based sessions aimed at breaking stigma around mental health issues while encouraging individuals, particularly youth, to seek timely support, counseling, and lawful remedies.
The PLVs also highlighted the role of legal services institutions in safeguarding the rights of persons facing addiction and mental health issues, and informed the audience about free legal aid services, helplines, and mechanisms for rehabilitation and social reintegration. Special attention was given to promoting healthy lifestyles, resilience among youth, and community participation in building a drug-free society.
The programme witnessed positive participation and appreciation from the hospital authorities, staff members, and attendees, who acknowledged the importance of conducting such awareness initiatives in healthcare settings. DLSA Srinagar reiterated its commitment to continue the awareness drive till January 12, 2026, as part of the National Youth Day observance, with the objective of empowering youth through legal literacy, promoting mental wellness, and strengthening preventive mechanisms against drug abuse at the grassroots level.
