Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has now led the anti-drug padyatra across all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. This is not a small achievement. It shows that the administration is serious, that the fight against drugs is not confined to a few cities, and that no corner of the Union Territory has been left untouched. In 57 days, the message has reached every district. Now, with 43 days remaining, the movement has entered its final and most crucial phase. The numbers speak for themselves. Over 1,130 smugglers arrested, more than 1,000 FIRs registered, over 100 properties attached, 700 driving licences cancelled, and 130 passports marked for revocation. This is a systematic dismantling of the drug network. The LG has made it clear that the ‘not my problem’ mindset will no longer work. Drug smugglers thrive on public silence. The moment communities speak up, the smugglers lose their cover. The next 43 days require a shift from government action to public participation. Every panchayat, every ward, every lane, and every household must become a frontline warrior against drugs. It is time to mobilise youth clubs and putting women in leadership positions. Mothers and sisters have the most to lose when addiction destroys families. They must now lead the campaign at the village level. Border districts like Poonch face an additional challenge. Cross-border drug smuggling is not just a health issue; it is a security issue. The money from narcotics finances terrorism. The LG has rightly linked the drug menace to narco-terrorism. This is not just about saving youth from addiction. It is about cutting off the funding that fuels violence and instability. The newly issued SOP gives law enforcement a free hand. Passports, driving licences, arms licences, and Aadhaar of smugglers will be cancelled. Their movable and immovable assets will be attached under the NDPS Act. These are powerful deterrents. But enforcement alone cannot win this war. The LG has emphasised giving youth a purpose through education, skills, and sports. The road ahead is long, but the determination is strong. The padyatra has covered every district. Now the people must carry the movement forward. The next 43 days will decide if J&K becomes truly drug-free. The mission is clear.
