Experts at Common Interest Conversations event say deterrence alone cannot address crisis, call for early intervention, community engagement
SRINAGAR: In a significant effort to combat the rising menace of drug abuse among youth and to foster awareness and responsibility across society, the community-oriented initiative “Resilient Minds, Drug-Free Future” was held today at Amar Singh Club Srinagar. The programme, organised by Common Interest Conversations, brought together a distinguished assembly of top intellectuals, legal experts, educationists, doctors, psychiatrists, social activists, government officials, and youth representatives.
The event aimed to spark constructive dialogue on the social, medical, psychological, and legal challenges posed by drug addiction, and to explore collective solutions to foster resilient, drug-free generations.
The programme was inaugurated with welcoming remarks from Nasir Hamid Khan, Secretary of Amar Singh Club Srinagar, who emphasized the urgency of tackling drug abuse as a collective social responsibility. “This initiative seeks to create awareness through dialogue, connecting experts from diverse fields to deliberate on the multifaceted nature of substance abuse and to identify actionable strategies,” he said.
Chairing the event was Senior Counsel of the Supreme Court of India, Adv. Zaffar A. Shah, who stressed the importance of understanding the root causes behind youth vulnerability. “Deterrence alone cannot address this crisis,” he explained. “We must analyze societal factors like unemployment, family instability, emotional stress, and exploitation that make young people susceptible to addiction. Awareness and early intervention are key to prevention.”
G.N. Var, Veteran Educationist and PSA Chief Patron, appreciated the initiative, highlighting that societal challenges like drug abuse require collective wisdom. “Education must go beyond academics to include character building, emotional resilience, and social responsibility,” he said. “If we fail to nurture responsible individuals, crises like drug addiction will persist regardless of economic progress.”
Mrs. Tasneem Akhter, a veteran social activist, shared insights from ground-level fieldwork. “Addiction has deeply damaged families and communities,” she noted. “Our visits to rehabilitation centers and affected families revealed the human suffering behind statistics. Continuous community engagement, awareness, and rehabilitation efforts are essential for sustainable progress.”
Dr. Shahzada Saleem, Nodal Officer at Social Welfare Department, emphasized the erosion of traditional social cohesion. “Reduced family interaction and social isolation have increased youth vulnerability,” he said. “Educational institutions must promote creative engagement and social participation to build resilience.”
Bilal Ahmad Bhat, President of the Private Schools’ Association J&K, highlighted early signs of drug dependence. “Parents need to be vigilant about behavioral changes,” he urged. “Early detection and family attention can prevent escalation of addiction.”
Dr. Shazia Kounser, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, underlined the critical link between mental health and substance abuse. “Society still hesitates to openly discuss mental health issues,” she remarked. “Awareness campaigns must be led by professionals to address the stigma and provide mental health support.”
Dr. Fazl e Roub, Psychiatrist, pointed out the regional challenge posed by narcotics trafficking through Kashmir. “International drug routes and local trafficking networks have expanded the crisis,” he warned. “A comprehensive approach involving families, healthcare facilities, law enforcement, and community organizations is vital for effective intervention.”
Prof. Dr. Abdul Majid Ganai, Former Head of Community Medicine at SKIMS, stressed prevention over treatment. “Research shows that early intervention and community engagement are more effective than addressing addiction after damage has occurred,” he said. “Creating awareness among students and families is crucial.”
Ms. Yasmeen Rashid Bhat, Chairperson of YAS Group LLC, emphasized the importance of youth engagement through sports and cultural activities. “Community participation can act as a protective shield,” she said. “Building confidence and providing constructive outlets reduce emotional isolation and prevent substance abuse.”
Madooda Yasmeen, a senior citizen, pointed out the influence of materialism and societal pressures. “The obsession with material wealth, social competition, and lack of moral direction contribute to youth frustration,” she observed. “We must rebuild societal values and ensure opportunities for meaningful engagement.”
Bazif Hussain Makhdoomi, a youth activist, called for early detection. “Addiction begins silently with behavioral changes,” he noted. “Parents and teachers must be vigilant and proactive in addressing issues before they escalate into dependence.”
Adv. Rafia Sailani, advocate at the J&K High Court, highlighted the legal dimensions of drug offences. “Stringent laws under NDPS Act are crucial, but punishment alone is insufficient,” she said. “Legal proceedings must be fair, and families need awareness and support to navigate the process.”
Adv. Bashir Siddiqui, senior lawyer, detailed recent trends of increasing NDPS cases. “The legal system faces a rising tide of narcotic-related offences,” he stated. “Proper investigation, procedural fairness, and community awareness are essential components of an effective response.”
Showkat Chowdhary, President of UPSCC, underscored the importance of early warning signs. “Behavioral changes such as social withdrawal, emotional distance, and unusual fears are signals parents must recognize,” he urged. “Family attention and open communication are vital for prevention.”
Dr. Lubna Khan, Medical Officer, stressed the multi-dimensional nature of addiction. “It’s not just a medical issue but a social and familial crisis,” she explained. “Community participation, early counseling, and sustained support are necessary to combat the epidemic.”
G.M. Lone, Chairman of BOMIS, linked the decline in work culture and social responsibility to youth frustration. “Lack of discipline and opportunities leads to disillusionment,” he said. “Reviving work ethics and social responsibility can help reduce dependency on harmful substances.”
Prof. Dr. Masooda Rafiq highlighted the need for inclusive social welfare strategies. “Efforts must target underprivileged and marginalized groups who are more vulnerable,” she emphasized. “Creating an inclusive society with equal opportunities can reduce social disparities that fuel addiction.”
Dr. Fayaz Bhat, from Education Department, spoke about curriculum-based awareness. “Educational institutions are integrating social responsibility, emotional health, and behavioral guidance into curricula to foster resilience,” he said.
Dr. Fazl e Roub pointed out Kashmir’s geographical vulnerability due to international narcotics trafficking routes. “Our region’s strategic location makes it a transit corridor, necessitating coordinated border and law enforcement measures,” he warned.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective effort of speakers, organizers, and participants. Emphasis was placed on sustained community engagement, early intervention, legal reforms, and societal responsibility to build a resilient, drug-free future.
In a final message, the gathering called for unity across all sectors—families, schools, healthcare, law enforcement, and civil society—to create a systemic, compassionate response to one of the most pressing social challenges of our time.