The Social Welfare Department in Srinagar has organized a capacity-building program for educators to strengthen awareness, prevention, and institutional response against substance abuse.
March 10, Srinagar: The Department of Social Welfare in Srinagar began a three-day training program for Heads of Institutions (HOIs) and teachers under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan at the NHM Hall in the Old Secretariat, Srinagar. The program aims to strengthen awareness and institutional mechanisms to prevent substance abuse among youth. The training began on March 9 and will conclude on March 11, 2026.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Dar, the District Social Welfare Officer in Srinagar, highlighted the importance of substance abuse prevention and emphasized the need to build the capacity of educational institutions for early identification, counseling, and rehabilitation of individuals affected by drug abuse.
The event featured active participation from Heads of Institutions and teachers representing various educational institutions across the district. The program is designed to equip participants with knowledge and practical skills to identify early warning signs of drug abuse and provide timely counseling and support to students.
During the sessions, medical experts delivered detailed presentations on the harmful effects of drug abuse, early warning signs, preventive strategies, and the availability of de-addiction facilities. The speakers emphasized the crucial role of educational institutions in addressing substance abuse and guiding students towards healthier lifestyles.
An interactive question and answer session was also held, during which participants raised important questions regarding the identification of at-risk students, referral mechanisms, counseling procedures, and community involvement. Experts addressed these concerns in detail, making the session informative and impactful for attendees. The training sessions focus on strengthening counseling skills, developing referral networks, and enhancing coordination between educational institutions and health agencies to effectively combat substance abuse.
