Srinagar, Aug 14: The Dean Students Welfare (DSW) and National Service Scheme (NSS) of the Central University of Kashmir (CUK) organised a Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme (VBYCP) at the varsity’s Tulmulla campus on Friday, focusing on youth participation in the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and the fight against substance abuse.

Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath appreciated the students’ presentations and urged young people to acquire knowledge, share it and apply it for the larger good of society. He called upon students to set ambitious goals and contribute meaningfully to India’s transformation.

Emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach to creating a drug-free society, the Vice Chancellor said the campaign must address not only narcotic substances but also alcohol and tobacco. He urged students to uphold discipline and dignity and contribute towards building a healthier society.

Chief Guest Satish Chandra, IAS (Retd), Chairperson JKRERA, expressed concern over the growing prevalence of drug abuse among youth, describing it as a serious threat to their aspirations and future.

Drawing on his interactions with educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir, Chandra said the region has exceptionally talented youth but warned that substance abuse is spreading rapidly. He urged youngsters to resist temptation and pursue healthy and purposeful lives, cautioning that the temporary euphoria associated with drugs can have lasting consequences for physical, mental and professional well-being.

Deputy Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, Urfaan stressed the importance of cooperation between youth and law-enforcement agencies. He said drug users should be treated as victims requiring empathy and rehabilitation, while those involved in drug trafficking must face stringent action.

“A drug addict is a victim. We need to own him,” he said, urging students to remain vigilant against drug peddlers and share information with police.

Students Anubhav Anand from the Department of Law and Tulba Rasool from the Department of English delivered presentations on the role of youth in achieving Viksit Bharat @2047 and government efforts to combat drug abuse.

Participants subsequently took a pledge to fight drug addiction.

Registrar Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, Deans, faculty members, scholars, students and NSS volunteers from Government Degree College Ganderbal attended the programme. Ms Shafaq Ashfaq conducted the proceedings, while Dr Shahid Sultan delivered the vote of thanks.