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 the need for regular health and behavioral screenings in schools and colleges to identify at-risk students and provide timely counseling.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on drug de-addiction in Jammu and Kashmir, Itoo, who also holds the Health, Medical Education, and Social Welfare portfolios, urged collective action to curb substance abuse. The meeting was attended by senior civil and police officials, along with representatives from NGOs and civil society groups, all expressing concern over the growing prevalence of drug abuse among children and youth in the Union Territory.
“The installation of CCTV cameras around schools and colleges will help monitor activities and prevent the circulation of illegal drugs,” the minister said. She also proposed the creation of community-based monitoring committees, including parents, civil society members, and religious leaders, under the guidance of the education department. These committees will submit monthly reports to the Directors of School Education and Higher Education on their observations and interventions.
“If we implement surveillance, community monitoring, and regular screenings collectively, we can make significant progress against the drug menace,” she added.
Participants at the meeting highlighted the easy availability of narcotics and psychotropic substances, especially near educational institutions. They suggested integrating training modules into curricula, establishing structural mechanisms, and conducting scientific awareness campaigns. Several rehabilitated substance users also shared their personal experiences, detailing how they fell into addiction and the challenges faced during recovery.
The minister assured full government support to institutions, NGOs, and civil society groups working on de-addiction initiatives, and called for coordinated efforts to safeguard the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.
