Hoshiarpur: A district-level awareness program was organized at Smt. Urmila Devi Ayurvedic College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Hoshiarpur, to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Dr. Mandeep Kamal, Civil Surgeon, Hoshiarpur, attended the event as the chief guest. The program was held under the guidance and direction of the college principal, Dr. Kumud Sharma, while the event's coordination and overall management were handled by Associate Professor Dr. Manu Verma.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Dr. Mandeep Kamal stated that drug abuse not only affects an individual's physical and mental health but also poses a major obstacle to the progress of the family and society. He emphasized that the youth are the country's future and should stay away from drugs, engaging instead in education, sports, and other constructive activities. He urged the students to play an active role in building a drug-free society.
Dr. Jasleen Kaur, Medical Officer and In-charge of the District Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation Centre, Hoshiarpur, provided detailed information regarding various types of intoxicants, the causes of addiction, its physical, mental, and social adverse effects, preventive measures, and the importance of timely treatment and counseling. She encouraged students to abstain from drugs and to spread awareness against substance abuse in society.
During the program, students presented an impactful awareness video highlighting the harmful effects of drugs and preventive measures; the presentation was appreciated by all those present. Additionally, a poster-making competition themed around anti-drug awareness was organized, in which students participated enthusiastically. The students who secured the first, second, and third positions in the competition were honored by the chief guest, Dr. Mandeep Kamal.
At the conclusion of the event, all students and staff members pledged to work together towards building a drug-free society and to spread public awareness against drug abuse. Officials and staff members, including Ravindra Jassal (Deputy Mass Media Officer), Balveer Kaur (Deputy Mass Media Officer), Rohit Sharma (Block Extension Educator), Amandeep (Block Educator), Prashant Adiya (Counselor), and Amandeep Tiwari, were present on this occasion.