JAMMU, FEBRUARY 29: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said youth-led fight will play a vital role in tackling the menace of drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Youth-led fight against drugs will play a vital role in tackling the menace of drug abuse and achieving the goal of a drug-free Jammu Kashmir,” he said.
Sinha was speaking after inaugurating the ‘JK Youth Conclave 2024’. He also launched the second season of ‘Inspire GenZ’ and ‘Beats of J&K’ initiatives of the Department of Information and Public Relations, at the Convention Centre, today.
LG-led administration has waged a war on drugs in Jammu and Kashmir. Massive crackdown has been launched against drug cartels which have earned praise from the general public.
Union Ministry of Social Justice data reveals that there are nearly 10 lakh drug addicts in Jammu and Kashmir. The data was compiled after the Ministry of Social Justice conducted a National Survey on the Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi.
Data reveals that 1.44 lakh drug abusers are consuming cannabis. Around 5.34 lakh men and 8,000 women are opioid addicts. Likewise, 1.6 lakh men and 8,000 women are taking sedatives.
Meanwhile, Lt Governor commended the efforts of the Department of Information and Public Relations for engaging and inspiring new generation to develop their individual selves.
“Platforms like ‘Youth Conclave’ will motivate Gen Zers to shape the J&K’s social, cultural, and economic landscape and eventually make an impact on different sectors,” the Lt Governor said.
He congratulated the Young Achievers from J&K who were honored today for their exemplary contribution in diverse fields.
“Youth power is the pillar for Viksit J&K and Viksit Bharat. The country is moving forward with great confidence, hope, and expectations and I am sure the young generation with their unique skills and talents will make their valuable contribution in this journey,” the Lt Governor said.
At the Youth Conclave, the Lt Governor highlighted the crucial role of the new generation in cultivating the most innovative ecosystem and shaping tomorrow’s success.
Youth power is the driving force of a progressive and prosperous India. They are creating a new path to achieve the vision of Amrit Kaal, he said.
He reiterated the commitment of the UT Administration towards the empowerment of youth and providing them with a conducive environment to unleash their true potential.
65% population of J&K is youth. This demographic dividend is our biggest strength, the Lt Governor said.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor impressed upon the Mission Youth and Department of Information & Public Relations to create a network of youth through a Next Generation Coalition- JK programme.
Youth always work selflessly. They live for others. Youth’s actions are not limited to their benefit. The personality of the youth believes in sharing, the Lt Governor observed.
Youth spread the fragrance of their talent and energy to benefit all. They help society to light the darker pathways to remove the darkness. The Administration will ensure all the necessary resources and handholding to the youth in their endeavors to serve the society, the Lt Governor further added.
The Lt Governor visited the exhibition stalls put up by the different departments at the Youth Conclave. He handed over appointment letters and benefits under various schemes to the beneficiaries.
Artists of Beats of J&K enthralled the audience with their electrifying performances. A short video on the journey of filmmaking in J&K was also showcased on the occasion.
Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lt Governor; Sh Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Rehana Batul, Commissioner Secretary Information; Sh Jatin Kishore, Director Information, senior officials, prominent personalities, renowned artists, young achievers and youth in large number were present.
