Jammu, 11 April (H.S.): The White Knight Corps of the Army on Saturday joined the 100-day ‘Nasha Mukht Abhiyan’ led by Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha which aims to eradicate the scourge of addiction from the Union territory, officials said.

Chief of Staff (COS) White Knight Corps launched a three-month-long series of public outreach activities as part of anti-drug campaign at Nagrota, reaffirming the Army’s commitment towards nation-building and societal resilience, a defence spokesman said.

The campaign commenced with a joint pledge ceremony followed by ‘padyatra’ by school children and National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, symbolising a unified resolve to combat the menace of drug abuse.

“The initiative is being conducted in close synergy with civil administration, police authorities, medical agencies, educational institutions and community leaders, ensuring a whole-of-society approach,” the spokesman said.

Over the next 14 weeks, the campaign will focus on intensive awareness drives across schools and colleges, community engagement through influencers and religious leaders, and targeted outreach programmes aimed at sensitising youth and families, he said, adding that lectures, interactive sessions and testimonial engagements will form the core of awareness efforts, supported by digital amplification and grassroots participation.

The spokesman said the initiative will also facilitate early identification, counselling support and linkage with rehabilitation mechanisms, while promoting positive behavioural change through community participation and youth engagement activities.

This concerted effort reflects the enduring commitment of the Army to partner with state agencies and civil society in addressing social challenges, strengthening public trust and guiding the youth towards a constructive and drug-free future, the official added.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar