Srinagar, Nov 26 (KNS): The Civil Society Forum Kashmir (Health) on Wednesday lauded the Government of Jammu & Kashmir for constituting a high-powered Task Force dedicated to the rehabilitation of drug-abuse victims across the Union Territory.

In a statement, CSFK-Health said the initiative by the General Administration Department reflects a bold and timely step toward addressing the growing menace of substance abuse.

The newly constituted Task Force comprises administrative secretaries from key departments, including Home, Finance, GAD, Social Welfare, Skill Development, Labour & Employment, Economics & Statistics, and School & Higher Education, signalling a comprehensive, multi-departmental strategy.

The forum said the inclusion of a wide range of departments will strengthen efforts aimed at supply reduction, demand reduction, harm mitigation, and long-term rehabilitation and reintegration of affected individuals. “This coordinated mechanism will significantly enhance the timely rehabilitation and mainstreaming of drug-abuse victims in J&K,” it added.

CSFK-Health also appreciated the role of Dr Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges J&K, for designating nodal officers across all colleges and initiating training programmes to build a pool of counsellors within higher educational institutions.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“This grassroots-level counselling infrastructure can play a pivotal role in early intervention, peer support, and the reintegration of vulnerable youth,” the forum said.

The organisation further recommended that the Medical Education Department be inducted as a formal member of the Task Force. It said psychiatrists, addiction specialists, and medical professionals must be engaged directly in planning and implementation to ensure evidence-based treatment protocols and high-quality rehabilitation services.

CSFK-Health extended its gratitude to the Chief Secretary of J&K for his “visionary leadership and robust efforts” to curb drug addiction through scientific and practical measures.

The forum added that a coordinated framework—combining administrative action, educational outreach, medical expertise, and community engagement—can help J&K move toward a healthier, safer, and drug-free future.(KNS)