Srinagar

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday announced a major campaign against drug abuse and linked the narcotics trade in the Union Territory to terrorism.

He described the growing drug problem as a serious threat to the youth and security of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking about the issue, Sinha said many young people are falling into drug addiction and claimed that drug networks operating in the region are connected with terror activities. He said the administration is treating the issue not only as a social concern but also as a security challenge.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted a special 100-day campaign launched on April 11 under the national “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.” The programme follows a three-phase strategy focusing on disruption, awareness and recovery.

Under the disruption phase, authorities are targeting drug supply chains and narco-terror networks through stronger intelligence operations and border vigilance. The awareness campaign aims to educate people at the grassroots level about the dangers of drugs, while the recovery programme focuses on treatment and rehabilitation for addiction victims.

Sinha said the administration, police and public are working together in the campaign, which has already shown positive results. He added that families and local communities are also helping identify victims and resisting the spread of drug abuse.

The Lieutenant Governor’s remarks came ahead of the “Mega Padyatra” for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled to be held at Srinagar’s TRC Football Stadium on May 3.

Sinha urged people to participate in the march and support efforts to build a safer and healthier future for coming generations in Jammu and Kashmir.