Srinagar, Apr 16: Joint Director Tourism Kashmir, Raja Waseem on Thursday said the administration wants youth to stay away from drugs and channel their energies towards sports, tourism and recreational activities.
Speaking during the Shikara rally organised on Dal Lake by the Tourism Department in collaboration with District Administration Srinagar to promote the campaign for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir, Waseem said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have great potential, and their energy should be guided in a positive direction.
He urged youngsters to participate more in sports activities and recreational programmes. “There are different modes of awareness. Campaigns are being conducted in schools, colleges and other institutions, while departments are also carrying out programmes at their own level,” he said.
The Joint Director said the Shikara rally was a special initiative by the Tourism Department. “However, every department, including the Information Department and District Administration, is playing a positive role in the anti-drug campaign. We all have one common goal. Activities may be different, but the objective is to keep our youth away from drugs,” he said.
Highlighting positive alternatives for youth, Waseem said young people should take part in tourism and adventure-related activities such as rafting, paragliding, trekking and camping, which can help build confidence and promote a healthy lifestyle.
He urged the media to play an active role in spreading awareness and carrying forward the message of a drug-free society.
The rally witnessed decorated shikaras moving across Dal Lake carrying anti-drug messages and promoting youth engagement in constructive activities—(KNO)
