Srinagar, September 18, 2026: Shahr-e-Khaas Literary & Cultural Welfare Society and Angel’s Cultural Academy, in collaboration with the J&K Excise Department (Excise Range Central Kashmir), J&K Police, and J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL), organized a one-day Drug Awareness Against Drug Abuse-cum-Cultural Programme at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, on September 17, 2026.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing more than 20 schools and colleges across Srinagar. Various activities, including painting and debate competitions, were organized to create awareness among young people about the harmful effects of drug abuse. Students also presented a variety of cultural performances carrying strong messages against drug addiction and substance abuse.
The programme was hosted by Junaid-ul-Islam and Nareen Bilal.
Deputy Excise Commissioner (Executive) Tabassum Kamili (JKAS) & Additional Secretary JKAACL Ideel Saleem (JKAS), attended the programme as Chief Guests.Excise & Taxation Officer Danishwar Shafii (JKAS),MLA Budgam Syed Muntazir Mehdi,Vilayat Hussain Sofi, Gh. Hassan (JKPS),Dr.Jagmeet kour Bali, Munir-ul-Islam, Mohammad Isaaq (SHO Shergari),Umar Farooq Bhat,Yasir Arfat Qadri, Imtiyaz Ahmad Khan, Gulal Kashmir, Salim Mir,Tahir Bhat,Sajad Ahmad Sholla, Farhan Kitab, Ajaz Ramzan,Muneer Ahmad,Nazim Nazir, Mehjabeen Gousia and SSP Traffic Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IPS) were present as Special Guests.
On the occasion, Dr. Tariq Ahmad Shera, President and Founder of Shahr-e-Khaas Literary & Cultural Welfare Society and Angel’s Cultural Academy, delivered an insightful address highlighting the growing threat of drug abuse among the younger generation. He urged students to stay away from drugs and emphasized the importance of collective efforts by educational institutions, parents, civil society, and government agencies in preventing drug abuse.
Book Release Function
A special book release function was also held as part of the programme. The book Khawab-e-Natamam, authored by Kaiser Khan, was formally released in the presence of the distinguished guests, literary personalities, students, teachers, and members of the cultural community.
The book was appreciated by the guests and participants for its literary contribution. Kaiser Khan was presented with an Award of Appreciation in recognition of his literary work and contribution to the field of literature.
The speakers and guests appreciated the efforts of the organizers in using literature, culture, art, and student participation as effective tools for spreading awareness about the dangers of drug addiction and promoting positive engagement among young people.
The programme was supported by J&K Bank, J&K Excise Department (Excise Range Central Kashmir), J&K Police, JKAACL, and Rampage Advertising Agency.
At the conclusion of the event, awards and certificates were distributed among the participating students, guests, media partners, and volunteers in recognition of their contribution and participation. The Award of Appreciation was also presented to Kaiser Khan for his literary contribution.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Tariq Ahmad Shera expressed gratitude to all the Chief Guests, Special Guests, participating students, teachers, media partners, volunteers, supporting organizations, and everyone who contributed to making the awareness programme a success.
He reiterated the commitment of the organizing institutions to continue working towards a drug-free society through awareness, education, art, culture, literature, and community participation.
