Srinagar, Oct 13 (KNO): Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said drug addiction and peddling have declined significantly in Jammu and Kashmir, attributing the progress to the Nasha Mukt campaign launched under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Jashn-e-Dal water sports event, Kumar, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the campaign had received an overwhelming response across the Union Territory.
“I would not say that drug addiction and drug peddling have completely stopped, but there has certainly been a significant reduction,” he said.
Emphasising the role of sports in preventing substance abuse, the ADGP said sporting activities are vital for the physical and mental well-being of young people, helping them cope with stress, anxiety and other challenges.
“Sports are an excellent way to keep our children and youth away from drugs. They not only make them physically fit but also strengthen them mentally and keep them away from social evils,” he said.
Referring to Jashn-e-Dal, Kumar said the annual event, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, attracts athletes from different disciplines and is eagerly awaited across Kashmir.
“Jashn-e-Dal is not merely a celebration of Dal Lake but a celebration of Kashmir itself. It beautifully showcases our rich culture, traditions and heritage,” he said.
He said water sports competitions would continue for the next three days, with the concluding ceremony scheduled for October 15, when winners and participants would be felicitated.
The ADGP urged athletes to compete with enthusiasm while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship.
“Winning and losing are part of sports, but the spirit of sportsmanship should never be compromised,” he added—(KNO)