Mental health is one of the least discussed yet most serious consequences of conflict. While the world often measures conflict through casualties, damaged infrastructure and economic losses, the invisible wounds carried by people can endure for generations.

Fear, uncertainty, repeated exposure to violence, displacement, loss of loved ones and disruption of normal life profoundly affect the psychological well-being of individuals and communities.

These effects are felt not only by civilians but also by members of the armed forces, police personnel, healthcare workers and others who operate in high-risk environments.

Jammu and Kashmir has experienced decades of security challenges arising from terrorism, cross-border infiltration and periods of civil unrest. Families have lived through uncertainty, school closures, disruptions to livelihoods and the emotional burden of prolonged insecurity.

Children who grow up in such environments often face anxiety, emotional distress and difficulties concentrating on education. Women frequently shoulder additional responsibilities while coping with loss, trauma and economic hardship.

Security personnel, who spend extended periods in demanding operational conditions, also face immense psychological pressure. Mental health, therefore, should be understood as a shared national concern rather than the challenge of any single community.

The World Health Organization estimates that around one in five people living in conflict-affected areas may experience a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder at any given time.

This figure is significantly higher than in populations not affected by conflict, highlighting the urgent need for accessible psychological support and community-based care.

Research from different conflict regions consistently demonstrates that the longer insecurity continues, the deeper its psychological impact becomes, particularly on children and adolescents.
Mental health challenges in conflict zones do not emerge solely from direct exposure to violence.

They are also shaped by persistent uncertainty, unemployment, disrupted education, social isolation and the breakdown of community networks. A child who cannot attend school regularly because of security concerns may lose confidence and hope for the future.

A young person struggling to find employment may become more vulnerable to depression or exploitation.

Families living under continuous stress often find it difficult to provide the emotional stability that children require during their formative years.

Another major challenge is stigma. Across many societies, including parts of India, people continue to associate mental illness with weakness or social embarrassment.

Individuals suffering from anxiety, depression or trauma frequently hesitate to seek professional help because they fear being judged by family members or society.

This silence often delays treatment and allows psychological conditions to become more severe. Breaking this stigma requires sustained public awareness, education and community engagement.

The Government of India has taken significant steps to strengthen mental healthcare. The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 recognised mental healthcare as a legal right and established a framework for accessible and non-discriminatory treatment.

The District Mental Health Programme has expanded services across the country, while the Tele-MANAS initiative has improved access to psychological counseling through a nationwide helpline.

Since its launch, Tele-MANAS has reached all States and Union Territories through dozens of centers and has responded to millions of calls, demonstrating both the growing demand for mental health support and the government’s commitment to expanding services.

However, conflict-affected regions require interventions that go beyond conventional healthcare systems. Mental health professionals must work alongside teachers, social workers, religious leaders, local administrations and community organizations. Schools should become centers of emotional resilience where children learn healthy coping mechanisms, conflict resolution and stress management.

Community-based counseling programmes can encourage individuals to seek help before problems become severe. Mobile counseling teams and telemedicine can extend services to remote villages where specialized professionals are scarce.
The role of families cannot be overstated. Emotional support within the household often determines whether an individual successfully recovers from trauma.

Parents should be encouraged to recognize early signs of emotional distress among children, including withdrawal from social interaction, changes in sleep patterns, declining academic performance and persistent anxiety. Timely intervention can prevent long-term psychological difficulties and improve overall well-being.

Members of the armed forces and police deserve equal attention in discussions on mental health. They operate in physically demanding and emotionally challenging conditions while carrying the responsibility of protecting national security. Long deployments away from families, exposure to danger and the pressures of operational readiness can affect psychological health.

Over the years, the Indian Armed Forces have expanded counseling services, peer-support mechanisms and stress-management programmes to strengthen the mental resilience of personnel. Such initiatives should continue to evolve with greater emphasis on early intervention and confidential access to professional care.

Media also has a significant responsibility. Sensational reporting of violent incidents may unintentionally increase public anxiety and fear. Responsible journalism should report facts accurately while avoiding unnecessary sensationalism.

At the same time, media can contribute positively by highlighting stories of resilience, rehabilitation, successful counseling initiatives and community solidarity. Balanced reporting encourages hope rather than despair and helps reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental healthcare.
Technology presents both opportunities and challenges.

Telemedicine has transformed access to psychological counselling, especially in remote areas where specialists are unavailable.

At the same time, the rapid spread of misinformation, graphic content and unverified rumours through social media can intensify fear and emotional distress during crises.

Strengthening digital literacy and encouraging responsible online behaviour are therefore essential components of mental health promotion.

Educational institutions should integrate emotional well-being into their curricula. Students should be taught that seeking psychological support is a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Teachers should receive basic training to identify students who may require professional assistance.

Universities can establish counseling centers that provide confidential support to young adults facing academic stress, social pressures and emotional challenges.

Civil society organizations, charitable institutions and community volunteers can complement government efforts by conducting awareness campaigns, organizing counseling camps and supporting families affected by conflict.

Religious and community leaders also have an important role in promoting compassion, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek professional help whenever necessary.

Mental health should also be viewed as an important pillar of national security. Communities that are emotionally resilient are better equipped to resist fear, misinformation and extremist propaganda.

Psychological well-being contributes to social stability, economic productivity and stronger democratic institutions. Investing in mental health is therefore not merely a healthcare expenditure but an investment in national resilience.

Jammu and Kashmir has repeatedly demonstrated remarkable resilience despite decades of adversity. Communities have continued to educate their children, rebuild livelihoods and preserve their cultural traditions even during difficult times.

This resilience should now be strengthened through a comprehensive mental health strategy that combines modern healthcare, community participation, educational reform and technological innovation. Such an approach would not only reduce suffering but also empower future generations to contribute positively to society.

As India continues its journey towards inclusive development and lasting peace, mental health must become an integral part of public policy, particularly in regions affected by conflict.

Roads, schools and hospitals are essential for development, but so are hope, emotional resilience and psychological well-being. A nation truly becomes stronger when it protects not only the physical security of its citizens but also their mental and emotional health.

By recognising mental health as a national priority, India can build communities that are more compassionate, resilient and prepared to face future challenges with confidence and unity.

The stunning mountains of Gulmarg, with snow-capped peaks touching the sky, attract thousands of tourists every year to witness the splendor of nature.

But a recent moment of uncertainty tested the mettle of visitors and rescuers alike. What started as a mechanical breakdown in one of the world’s highest cable car systems quickly turned into a huge rescue operation involving hundreds of people stuck at very high heights midair.

But what could have been a national catastrophe became a brilliant example of courage, readiness, leadership, and humanity.

A technical failure in the running of the Gulmarg Gondola suspended about 60 to 65 tourist-laden cabins in mid-air.

More than 300 passengers, including ladies (a few pregnant), children, and elderly individuals, were suddenly suspended above tough terrain, moreover, under bad weather conditions.

As each minute passed, the safety of those confined inside the cabins was becoming a concern as fear, uncertainty, and dread were beginning to grip those inside. It was a severe matter.

The ground under the gondola was rough. It was raining with a mild hailstorm, and night was falling. The risks would have been far worse if the response had been delayed.

But in this case, Bharat’s emergency response system rose to the occasion, proving its resilience, efficiency, and unshakable commitment to saving lives.

The Indian Army’s High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), based in Gulmarg and famous across the world for its mountain warfare cum survival skills and rescue missions, sprang into action instantly under the able stewardship of its Commandant.

HAWS personnel, trained in some of the roughest weather and terrain conditions on earth, rushed to the scene without hesitation.
They were joined by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Jammu & Kashmir Police, civil administration, healthcare specialists, and local volunteers, all working towards one goal—getting each of the trapped tourists home safely.

The operation soon became a spectacular demonstration of teamwork and professionalism. Rescue teams developed communications networks and a coordinated command structure and sent trained individuals to the scene with superior mountain rescue equipment.

Teams were deliberately deployed from several directions, taking on steep gradients and harsh weather to reach trapped cottages to ensure multipoint and simultaneous rescue. Every step was measured, every movement thoughtful, every decision centered on saving human life.

Major General Puneet Doval, Commandant, High Altitude Warfare School, led this wonderful operation with total control and interagency synergy.

In an age of leadership that is generally linked with command posts and distant monitoring, Major General Doval personified the ageless military axiom of leading from the front.

He was on the ground during the operation, personally supervising the rescue and coordinating among authorities and comforting rescued tourists experiencing PTSD.

His assurance gave the rescuers confidence and calmed frightened tourists who were watching in person the resolve of those working relentlessly for their safety.
The success of the procedure was not a coincidence. This was years of training, readiness, and institutional greatness coming together.

The High Altitude Warfare School has long been considered one of the world’s preeminent military schools for mountain warfare and high-altitude operations.

Soldiers train at HAWS to survive, operate, and perform rescue operations in places where even basic movement is difficult.

The Gulmarg rescue has once again demonstrated that such skill is not just the domain of military operations; it is equally critical in safeguarding civilian lives in times of crises.

What made the operation even more important was the faultless execution of the operation, especially when compared to a similar catastrophe in Murree, Pakistan, in January 2022.

A strong snowstorm trapped thousands of tourists in cold conditions, blocked roads, and brought transportation to a halt. As situations worsened, people found themselves stuck in cars for hours and, in many cases, overnight.

The accident killed at least 23, including women and children.
Later inquiries identified strategic, tactical, and operational failures that contributed to the loss of life.

Gulmarg faced a similar challenge. The combination of severe weather, stranded visitors, and possible risk to escalate could have easily turned into a catastrophe.

But it was an entirely unique outcome. Whereas Murree proved to be a terrible lesson in the price of lack of preparedness and delayed response, Gulmarg became a compelling example of how planning, coordination, and decisive leadership can save lives.
Each agency engaged had an important role to fulfill.

The Indian Army brought in unmatched skill and operational leadership.
HAWS workers used specific mountain rescue abilities gained over years of training.

The NDRF and SDRF teams offered crucial disaster response capabilities. The Jammu & Kashmir Police coordinated and provided safety for the public.
The civil administration provided logistical support and assistance.

Medical personnel were on standby to help the rescued individuals, while local volunteers were prepared to offer all necessary assistance.
Together they wove a seamless net of service and dedication.

Maybe the most astonishing feat of the mission was that it resulted in zero casualties, wherein
Rescue teams saved all the stuck tourists safely without a scratch. And every family went home.

All lives were secure. In disaster response work, the numbers often tell a clear story, and here the most significant figure was simple yet profound: not one life was lost.
There is a deeper story of humanity behind the technical success.

The rescue effort served as a reminder to the country that the men in uniform are so much more than border guards. They are guardians of human life, protectors of communities, and signs of confidence in times of distress.

Serving the nation is not limited to the battlefield, as Indian soldiers demonstrate time and again when responding to avalanches, floods, earthquakes, medical emergencies, or rescue operations in distant places.

Furthermore, the events at Gulmarg teach a significant lesson for modern disaster management. Natural disasters and emergencies may be inescapable, but tragedy need not be.

Effective leadership, ready institutions, coordination, and swift response between agencies can be the difference between calamity and survival.

The Gulmarg rescue effort shows how we should utilize these ideas in emergency situations. Today, the rescued tourists are telling their stories and are safely back in their homes.

The nation is deeply indebted to all the people who participated in this expedition.
To the brave soldiers of the Indian Army and the High Altitude Warfare School, to the personnel of NDRF and SDRF, to the officials of Jammu & Kashmir Police, to the civil administration, medical teams, and local volunteers—your dedication converted dread into hope and uncertainty into safety.

Major General Puneet Doval and the personnel of HAWS, Gulmarg, deserve special commendation for their leadership, knowledge, and commitment, which reflected the greatest traditions of military service.
They showed that real leadership is not about rank but about taking the lead when lives are at stake.

The Gulmarg Gondola rescue will not just be remembered as an emergency response operation but as a narrative of courage under duress, leadership in action, and humanity at its best.

It’s a monument to what can be done when institutions are prepared, leaders are bold, and rescuers put the safety of others ahead of their own comfort.

When danger came to the mountains of Kashmir, India’s rescuers didn’t question who needed aid, where they were from or what the challenges ahead were. They just kept going on. And their actions are why they will always be recognized as the real heroes of Gulmarg.

Athletics is more than a sport; it is a reflection of discipline, sacrifice, endurance, and determination. It shapes character, strengthens mental resilience, and inspires societies by proving that dedication and hard work can overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Across India, athletics and sports are increasingly becoming instruments of youth empowerment, national pride, and social transformation.

In border regions like Jammu Kashmir, where young people often face geographical isolation, limited opportunities, and socio-economic challenges, sports have emerged as a powerful force of hope and identity.

The true essence of athletics lies not merely in winning medals but in the spirit of persistence.

Every athlete represents years of sacrifice, rigorous training, emotional struggle, and silent determination.

Behind every success story is a family that supported dreams despite hardships, a coach who believed in talent, and an athlete who refused to surrender to limitations.

The border districts of Poonch and Rajouri have produced several remarkable athletes who continue to inspire the youth of Jammu & Kashmir.

Among them is Saqlain Tariq, a talented volleyball player from the border district of Poonch who represented India at the national level. His journey from a remote border region to the Indian national team reflects the immense sporting potential that exists in Jammu Kashmir despite limited infrastructure and opportunities.
Similarly, Abhilove Kour has become a symbol of determination and women empowerment.

Having participated in 14 national-level hockey tournaments, she later earned selection in India’s international Lacrosse team. In 2025, she represented India in Saudi Arabia, where the Indian team defeated Pakistan in the finals, bringing pride and recognition to the nation.

Her achievement demonstrated not only sporting excellence but also the rising role of women athletes from Jammu & Kashmir in representing India on international platforms.
However, her story also exposes a painful reality. In a country where slogans such as “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” are widely promoted, many talented female athletes still struggle to receive meaningful institutional support.

Despite verbal encouragement from various offices and authorities, the financial and logistical support required for international preparation often remains absent.

Today, Abhilove Kour is preparing for pre-Olympic competitions in Australia, yet athletes like her continue to depend largely on personal struggle and limited resources.

If India truly wishes to become a global sporting power, governments and institutions must ensure that talented athletes are supported not only through speeches and campaigns but through concrete assistance, sponsorships, training infrastructure, and long-term career security.

Another shining example is Tajamul Islam, who has brought laurels to Jammu Kashmir and the nation through her achievements in international kickboxing championships.

Rising from humble beginnings, Tajamul Islam became an inspiration for young girls across India by proving that courage and determination can defeat every social and economic barrier.
The contribution of soldiers in sports also deserves recognition. Chain Singh of the Indian Army has earned recognition for India in athletics through exceptional dedication and discipline.

The armed forces have historically played a crucial role in promoting sports culture in India by nurturing athletes from remote and rural regions, especially border areas where opportunities are limited.
Beyond these names, countless young athletes from Jammu Kashmir continue preparing quietly for national and international competitions. Many train without proper stadiums, advanced coaching facilities, sports equipment, nutritional support, or sponsorship. Yet their determination remains unbroken.

They run on uneven grounds, practice in difficult weather conditions, and continue chasing dreams while carrying the hopes of their families and communities.
Sports in Jammu & Kashmir have also become a powerful response to social challenges such as drug abuse, frustration, unemployment, and violence. Athletics provides youth with discipline, focus, and a constructive direction.

A young athlete preparing for a competition is less likely to fall into destructive influences because sports instill self-respect, ambition, and purpose.
Athletics also strengthens national integration. When athletes from border villages wear the Indian jersey and compete internationally, they become ambassadors of unity and patriotism.

Their victories send a strong message that talent exists in every corner of India and that border youth are equally capable of bringing glory to the nation.
Despite recent improvements in India’s sports ecosystem through initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India, much more needs to be done at the grassroots level.

Border districts require modern stadiums, athletic tracks, indoor sports facilities, women-specific sports programs, scholarships, nutrition support systems, physiotherapy centres, and transparent talent identification mechanisms.

Special attention must be given to athletes from economically weaker backgrounds who often discontinue their sporting careers due to financial pressures.
Women athletes in particular need stronger institutional protection and encouragement. Safety, travel support, sponsorship opportunities, educational flexibility, and family counseling programs can significantly improve female participation in sports.

Real empowerment is achieved not through slogans alone but through action that enables talented girls to pursue their dreams without barriers.
Athletics ultimately teaches society the values of perseverance, discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, and national pride.

Every athlete who rises from a remote village or border district becomes a symbol of hope for thousands of other young people.

Their success proves that talent does not depend upon geography or privilege; it depends upon opportunity and determination.
Where discipline meets determination, champions emerge.

And when a nation stands behind its athletes with sincerity and commitment, sports become not only a source of medals but a foundation for stronger, healthier, and more united societies.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) stands as one of India’s greatest symbols of resilience, strategic vision, and national commitment.

In the harsh terrains of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and other frontier regions, where nature itself becomes an obstacle, BRO has emerged as the force that transforms isolation into connectivity and uncertainty into confidence.

Every road laid across icy mountains, every bridge erected over dangerous rivers, and every tunnel carved through rocky passes reflects not merely engineering skill, but the spirit of India’s determination to safeguard and develop its border regions.
Established in 1960, the BRO was created with the objective of strengthening India’s border infrastructure in strategically sensitive regions.

Over the decades, the organisation evolved into a critical pillar of national security and regional development.

In Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, BRO projects have significantly improved mobility for the armed forces while also bringing socio-economic transformation to remote civilian populations.

Roads that once remained inaccessible for months due to snow are now witnessing greater connectivity, tourism, healthcare access, educational opportunities, and economic activity.

The strategic role of BRO becomes especially significant in regions bordering Pakistan and China. Infrastructure in border areas is directly linked to defence preparedness, troop mobilization, logistics, and operational readiness.

Roads such as the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DSDBO) road in Ladakh have dramatically enhanced military access near the Line of Actual Control.

Similarly, rapid snow-clearance operations at passes like Zojila ensure uninterrupted connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, demonstrating the operational capability and commitment of BRO personnel working in extremely hostile conditions.

Beyond defense, the BRO has become a catalyst for economic growth and national integration. Improved roads encourage tourism, trade, transport, and local entrepreneurship. Remote villages that were once cut off from mainstream development are now connected to markets, hospitals, schools, and administrative centers.

The psychological impact of such connectivity is equally important because infrastructure development reinforces the feeling of inclusion among people living in distant border regions.

An important and often overlooked aspect of BRO’s functioning is the growing role of outsourcing and consultancy-based execution in infrastructure development.

Due to the technical complexity of modern highway and tunnel projects, BRO increasingly relies upon specialised consultancy firms for alignment studies, topographical surveys, geotechnical investigations, DPR preparation, tunnel designs, environmental clearances, structural engineering, and project management support.

Tender and consultancy documents related to BRO projects clearly show that private consultants are engaged for tasks such as highway alignment planning, detailed project reports, bridge designs, LiDAR surveys, land acquisition studies, environmental clearances, material testing, and software-based project management systems.

Official consultancy tenders associated with BRO projects reveal that consultants are entrusted with detailed alignment verification, tunnel design expertise, topographical surveys using advanced LiDAR technology, geotechnical investigations, environmental clearances, and preparation of technical schedules and contract documentation.

These consultancy arrangements enable BRO to combine military discipline and operational capability with specialised private-sector expertise and modern engineering practices.
The outsourcing of technical and consultancy works are becoming increasingly necessary because infrastructure projects in Himalayan regions require advanced technologies, specialised manpower, environmental compliance mechanisms, and sophisticated survey methods that demand multidisciplinary expertise.

BRO’s integration of consultancy services must reflect the modernisation of India’s border infrastructure ecosystem and demonstrate how strategic projects today involve collaboration between government agencies, engineers, consultants, technology providers, and field experts.

While such outsourcing may be intended to bring technical expertise and accelerate execution, it simultaneously raises serious concerns regarding the protection of sensitive strategic information.

The concern is not about development itself, but about the potential vulnerability created when highly sensitive geographical, military, and logistical information is shared across multiple private stakeholders.

Alignment maps, tunnel locations, alternative military routes, bridge load capacities, terrain vulnerabilities, soil stability reports, and strategic connectivity corridors are not ordinary engineering details.

In border regions, such information may reveal military movement capabilities, supply routes, operational access points, and emergency mobilization plans.
Infrastructure in frontier regions operates within a strategic security ecosystem. Roads constructed by BRO are often used for troop deployment, ammunition transport, heavy military logistics, evacuation operations, and surveillance mobility.

If sensitive technical data related to such projects is widely circulated among consultants, subcontractors, survey teams, software vendors, and outsourced agencies without stringent oversight mechanisms, the risk of information leakage increases significantly.
India today faces complex security challenges, including cross-border terrorism, cyber espionage, satellite surveillance, and intelligence gathering by hostile agencies.

In such an environment, unrestricted outsourcing in strategic infrastructure projects requires serious scrutiny. Even if no deliberate compromise occurs, excessive dependence on external entities may unintentionally expose critical vulnerabilities related to India’s border preparedness.
The issue becomes even more significant because modern infrastructure projects rely heavily on digital mapping technologies, GPS systems, drone surveys, cloud-based project management tools, and online tendering platforms.

Sensitive terrain data stored digitally may become vulnerable to cyber threats, unauthorized access, or external interception if robust security protocols are not enforced.

Strategic road alignments and tunnel designs in border areas should therefore be treated with the same level of confidentiality as defense-related operational information.
This does not mean that private expertise has no role in infrastructure development. Advanced engineering projects often require specialised technical knowledge, modern surveying technology, and scientific expertise that external consultants can provide. However, there is a growing need for strict institutional safeguards, classified data protocols, background verification systems, cybersecurity audits, and enhanced military oversight over all outsourced works connected to strategic infrastructure.

Several experts have argued that highly sensitive alignment planning, tunnel designs, alternate route mapping, and military logistics corridors should preferably remain under direct governmental and defense supervision instead of extensive private handling.

National security cannot be compromised in the pursuit of faster execution or administrative convenience.
The BRO has historically earned respect because of its discipline, operational secrecy, and strategic reliability.

Its personnel have worked under hostile conditions with dedication and patriotism for decades.

Therefore, preserving the strategic integrity of BRO projects is equally important as expanding infrastructure itself.

India’s border infrastructure development must continue at full speed, but the process should ensure that national security considerations remain paramount. Development and security must move together. The challenge before policymakers is to strike a balance between technological modernization and strategic confidentiality.

The mountains of Ladakh, Kashmir, and other frontier regions are not merely construction zones; they are national security frontiers. Every road, bridge, and tunnel in these regions carries strategic significance.

Protecting the confidentiality of infrastructure designs, alignments, and operational details is therefore not just an administrative necessity it is a national responsibility.

The problem of drugs in Jammu and Kashmir is very serious. It is not just a crime or a bad habit.

It is a danger to the health of people, safety of society, future of our youth, and peace of the entire region.

Many young boys and even girls in Jammu and Kashmir are falling into drug addiction. Some take drugs because of stress, unemployment, or bad company.

Others are tempted by dealers who make it look fashionable or a way to escape problems. Many families do not even know that their children are using drugs until it becomes too late. Drug addiction destroys the body and mind.

It damages the heart, brain, liver, and weakens a person’s thinking. Addicted people lose interest in studies, work, or relationships. They fight with families, steal money for drugs, and sometimes get involved in crime.

Drug addiction also spreads diseases when people share needles. Families suffer emotionally and financially. In Jammu and Kashmir, where family bonds are strong, addiction brings shame, sadness, and helplessness.

It also affects the entire society because addicted youth cannot contribute to development, peace, or progress. Another big problem is that drugs are also being used to harm the region from outside.

Pakistan-based smugglers and terror groups are pushing drugs into Jammu and Kashmir to destroy young minds and to earn money for terror activities.

They use drones, secret routes, and local networks to spread heroin, charas, and other harmful substances. This is called narco-terrorism. Their aim is to weaken the youth, break social harmony, and disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

But there is also hope. The government, Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Anti Narcotics Task Force, schools, and many social groups are fighting back.

They are trying to stop the supply of drugs, spread awareness, treat addicted people, and save the future of our youth.

The Anti Narcotics Task Force is a special team of Jammu and Kashmir Police that catches drug smugglers, blocks drug supply, and finds out which gangs are supplying drugs from outside and inside the region.

They have arrested many peddlers, seized large quantities of heroin, and broken many drug networks. The Indian Army is also doing an important job.

Army troops guard the borders and stop smugglers from bringing drugs into Jammu and Kashmir. They have caught large drug consignments and noticed how drones from across the border are used to drop drugs.

The Army also conducts awareness camps, sports events, and youth programs to keep young people active and away from drugs. The Government of India has started the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, which means Drug-Free India Campaign.

Under this campaign, schools, colleges, and social groups organize workshops, rallies, street plays, and counselling sessions. They teach youth about the dangers of drugs and guide them towards good habits, sports, and skill development.

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir also has its own mission called Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan.

This mission encourages teachers, parents, religious leaders, health workers, and community members to work together to protect young people. They conduct village meetings, school programs, and treatment camps.

Officials are also opening de-addiction centers in hospitals where addicted youth receive medical treatment, psychological counselling, and training to restart a normal life.

But the strongest and most long-term solution is education. Education does not only mean studying books. It means teaching children about right and wrong, healthy living, emotional strength, and decision-making. When students know how drugs destroy life, they are less likely to try them.

When teachers and parents talk openly about addiction, children feel safe to ask questions and share problems. When schools include life skill lessons, mental health support, and sports activities, young people find purpose, confidence, and happiness.

They do not feel the need to escape into drugs. Education also helps society understand that addiction is not always a crime.

It is often a disease, and people need help to recover. When society supports recovering addicts instead of judging them, they have a better chance of starting a new life. Education helps remove stigma and builds kindness, care, and unity.

We must also understand that only police action or army security cannot completely solve this problem.

If there is demand, someone somewhere will supply drugs. That is why we must stop demand through awareness, discipline, emotional support, and hope. Young people must feel that they have opportunities, dreams, and a purpose in life.
When youth feel strong and hopeful, they reject drugs naturally. Yes, there are challenges.

Education and awareness take time. Some schools and families still avoid talking about addiction. Some people feel ashamed to seek help. But slowly, attitudes are changing. More families are coming forward for treatment.

More children are saying no to drugs. More communities are joining awareness drives. This change must grow. Jammu and Kashmir is going through an important time in history. Roads, bridges, tourism, farming, business, and technology are improving. But the real future depends on the mental and physical health of its youth.

If young people are healthy, educated, strong, and drug-free, Jammu and Kashmir will rise as a model of peace and progress. If they fall into addiction, no development will be meaningful.

The fight against drugs is not only a police duty. It is a duty of every teacher, every parent, every religious leader, every soldier, every doctor, and every youth.

Together, with firm action, kind support, and strong education, we can protect our children from drugs and protect Jammu and Kashmir’s future.

Demanded Implementation of RERA in letter and Spirit

Advocate Zeshan Syed, Chairman of Haq Insaaf Council, today called upon the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and submitted a detailed representation highlighting the alarming rise in illegal land transactions and unauthorized constructions in Srinagar, particularly along the Hyderpora–Humhama stretch.

During the meeting, Advocate Zeshan Syed brought to the notice of the Divisional Commissioner the existence of a well-organized nexus of land brokers and certain officials allegedly involved in the illegal sale of state land, wetlands, buffer zones, and other protected categories of land.

He emphasized that such activities are in blatant violation of revenue and municipal laws, causing huge losses to the public exchequer and undermining the rule of law.

The representation also highlighted the growing concern of large-scale cash transactions in land dealings, which not only facilitate black money circulation but also pose serious security implications.

Advocate Zeshan Syed stressed that unauthorized constructions in environmentally sensitive areas are severely damaging Srinagar’s fragile ecology and increasing the risk of urban flooding.

He urged the Divisional Commissioner to take immediate and decisive action, including the constitution of a high-powered committee to investigate illegal land transactions and constructions, particularly in the Hyderpora–Humhama corridor.

He further demanded strict implementation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), identification and registration of all land brokers, and stringent action against those operating without licenses.

Advocate Zeshan Syed also called for an immediate halt to all unauthorized constructions and sought directions to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation to enforce building regulations in letter and spirit. He emphasized the need for fixing accountability and retrieving illegally occupied state land.

The Divisional Commissioner gave a patient hearing to the concerns raised and assured that appropriate and necessary action will be initiated in accordance with law.

Reaffirming his commitment to justice and public welfare Advocate Zeshan Syed stated that Haq Insaaf Council will continue to raise issues affecting common citizens and work towards transparency, accountability, and protection of the environment.