Phagwara: Street play staged to spread awareness

Phagwara: Pushpa Gujral Science City celebrated International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to create awareness about the menace of drug abuse. ‘Invest in Prevention’ calls upon communities and policy makers to adopt evidence-based approaches to prevention. The event included a thought-provoking Nukkad Natak (Street Play) performed by the talented artists of Nehru Yuva Kendra. The performance highlighted the alarming situation of drug abuse and emphasized the importance of prevention. This powerful medium made the audience, especially the youth, aware about the harmful effects of drugs. Dr. Gagandeep Kaur, District Youth Officer, Kapurthala, said that the primary objective of the event was to raise awareness about drug abuse and educate the younger generation through Nukkad Natak or Street Play. Dr. Gagandeep Kaur urged all parents to protect their children from the dangers of drugs and provide them a safe and supportive environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Scientist-D Dr. Munish Soin emphasised that tackling drug trafficking and drug abuse is a shared responsibility, in which both the government and the community play a vital role. He stressed that drug abuse is not only a threat to individuals but also has a serious impact on families and the entire society. The programme was presided over by Superintendent of Police Rupinder Kaur Bhatti. SP Bhatti in her address emphasised the unwavering commitment of the police administration to eradicate drugs from the society. She highlighted the ongoing efforts to collaborate with various social and religious organisations. The administration aims to not only expose drug peddlers but also ensure that they face strict punishment. Naib Tehsildar Mandeep Singh emphasised the need to hate drugs and not despise drug addicts, he advocated counselling to help them lead a healthy life. AAP leader Santosh Kumar Gogi discussed the causes of drug abuse including unemployment, illiteracy, parental neglect and the influence of social media. SP Bhatti also released a sticker issued by the police administration with the aim of promoting anti-drug awareness.