Music Takes Center Stage in Jammu’s Fight Against Drug Abuse

• FICCI FLO J&K organizes anti-drug awareness event on Tawi riverfront
• Young artists use music to spread message against addiction
• Initiative inspired by LG Manoj Sinha’s Nasha Mukt campaign
• Organisers stress community participation in protecting youth

GG News Bureau
Jammu, 8th June: In a unique effort to combat rising drug abuse among young people, FICCI FLO Jammu & Kashmir organized a music-based awareness campaign on the banks of the River Tawi, using the universal language of music to deliver a powerful message against addiction.

The event was held under the organisation’s flagship ‘Jammu Yuva’ programme, aimed at educating young people about the dangers of narcotics such as chitta, heroin and synthetic drugs that have increasingly become a concern across Jammu and Kashmir.

As evening descended over the Tawi riverfront, a group of young artists led by Anirudh and Puneet performed before an enthusiastic audience. Through songs, music and performances, they sought to encourage youth to reject drugs and embrace a healthier future.

Organisers said the programme was designed to connect with young people in a relatable way rather than through conventional awareness campaigns.

FICCI FLO Jammu & Kashmir Chairperson Varsha Bansal said meaningful change becomes possible when communities and governments work together.

“We drew inspiration from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s 100-day Nasha Mukt campaign to dismantle the ecosystem targeting the youth, who are the backbone of our region,” she said.

Former FICCI FLO J&K Chairperson Varuna Anand highlighted the role of music as a powerful medium for social change.

“Music is universal and connects with everyone. There can be no better tool to spread awareness among young people,” she said.

Founder member Ruchika Gupta said the large participation at the event demonstrated how cultural initiatives can effectively engage the younger generation.

“The huge turnout itself reflects the impact such programmes can create among youth,” she noted.

The event attracted college students, young professionals and local residents, many of whom joined the campaign’s call for a drug-free society.

Speakers and organisers stressed that drug addiction is not merely a law-and-order challenge but a social issue that affects families, communities and the future of the region.

They expressed hope that the campaign’s message would resonate beyond the event venue and inspire greater awareness in homes, educational institutions and communities.

With music replacing speeches and lectures, the organisers sought to send a simple but powerful message: drugs destroy lives, while positive choices can help young people build a brighter future.

The campaign forms part of broader efforts in Jammu and Kashmir to tackle substance abuse through awareness, community engagement and youth-focused interventions.