Srinagar: Expressing deep concern over the rising drug abuse among youth, Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Monday announced that the installation of CCTV cameras in and around educational institutions will be made mandatory.
Highlighting the importance of early intervention, she emphasized regular health and behavioural screenings in schools and colleges to identify vulnerable students and provide timely counselling.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on drug de-addiction in Jammu and Kashmir, Itoo, who also holds the portfolios of Health and Medical Education, and Social Welfare, addressed the urgent need to curb substance abuse. The meeting brought together senior civil and police officers, representatives from NGOs, and civil society members, all expressing alarm over the growing incidence of drug abuse among children and youth in the Union Territory.
“The installation of CCTV cameras in schools and colleges will help monitor activities and prevent the illegal circulation of drugs,” the minister stated. She also called for the creation of community-based monitoring committees involving parents, civil society members, and religious leaders, facilitated by the education department.
These committees will be required to submit monthly reports to the Directors of School Education and Higher Education detailing their activities and impact, she added. “Through surveillance, monitoring, community engagement, and regular screenings, we can make significant progress in tackling the drug menace,” Itoo affirmed.
Earlier, participants highlighted the easy availability of narcotics and psychotropic substances, especially around educational institutions and other vulnerable areas. They suggested integrating training modules into curricula, establishing structured monitoring mechanisms, and conducting scientific awareness campaigns, according to an official spokesperson.
Several recovering substance users also shared their personal experiences, describing the path to addiction and the challenges faced during recovery.
The minister assured full government support to institutions, civil society groups, and NGOs working in de-addiction and urged all stakeholders to collaborate closely to safeguard the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.
