JAMMU, April 11, 2026 : Reinforcing a strong and unified stand against drug abuse, Manoj Sinha on Saturday led a massive padyatra in Jammu under the banner of Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, calling for a “whole-of-government” approach to eliminate the drug menace from Jammu and Kashmir.
The padyatra witnessed participation from thousands of citizens and began at Maulana Azad Stadium, passing through key city locations including Dogra Chowk, Vivekanand Chowk, Raghunath Bazaar, and City Chowk, before culminating at Parade Ground. Participants marched with the national flag, raising slogans to promote a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor described the campaign as a historic mass movement aimed at reaching every corner of the Union Territory. He emphasized that the fight against drug abuse requires coordinated and sustained efforts involving all government departments, institutions, and the public.
“Today, we have given voice to a resolve that will reach every village, town, and home, fulfilling the pledge of a drug-free J&K,” Sinha said.
Highlighting the roadmap ahead, he stated that the next three months will be crucial, with the campaign unfolding in six phases—intensive awareness drives, youth-centric initiatives, community engagement, strict enforcement measures, rehabilitation efforts, and continuous evaluation.
Calling drug abuse a collective crisis, Sinha stressed that the issue goes beyond individual suffering and impacts entire families and communities. He urged citizens to actively participate in the movement, transforming awareness into responsibility.
“Together, with unwavering resolve, we will fight and defeat the scourge of drug abuse,” he asserted, adding that the administration is determined to ensure that no youth or family falls victim to addiction.
The Lt Governor also highlighted the human side of the crisis, noting that behind every statistic lies a story of pain, struggle, and loss, reinforcing the urgency of united action.
The padyatra marks the beginning of an intensive, people-driven campaign to eradicate drug abuse and safeguard the future of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
