Srinagar, June 26: In a powerful display of unity against the rising threat of drug addiction and illicit trafficking, SKIMS Medical College Bemina organized a remarkable event focused on tackling the issue head-on. Esteemed individuals and budding medical professionals convened to address prevention strategies, offer support, and challenge the pervasive stigma surrounding drug abuse.
Under the theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention,” the college auditorium transformed into a hub of meaningful discussions, innovative solutions, and inspirational messages. Notable guests, including Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Ex-Advisor to the Governor, and Prof Bashir Ahmad Laway, Dean of SKIMS Deemed University, lent their influential voices to the cause.
With unwavering passion and urgency, experts shed light on the alarming surge of drug addiction, enlightening the audience about its devastating impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. The resounding message reverberated throughout the hall, emphasizing that addiction is not a choice but a disorder that demands empathy and compassionate treatment.
Dr Abdul Majid, Professor and Head of Psychiatry at SKIMS Bemina, took the stage to advocate for preventive strategies and early intervention through comprehensive awareness campaigns. Stressing the vital role of families and communities, he called for a united front against relapse, a common challenge faced by those combating substance abuse. Dr Majid further encouraged youth to engage in sports and recreational activities as positive outlets for their struggles.
Khurshid Ganai highlighted the need for intensified research on substance abuse, drawing attention to the severe complications often accompanying addiction, including psychiatric disorders, Hepatitis B&C, and even HIV/AIDS. His words echoed the urgency for comprehensive solutions that address both the physical and mental health aspects.
Prof Irfan Rubbani, Principal of SKIMS Medical College, underscored the importance of bolstering mental health facilities within the college, envisioning a future with reduced disease burden and a brighter community. Other speakers, including Ghulam Jeelani Nahvi, Dr Bashir Ahmad Dar, Dr Nighat Jabeen, Dr Mohammad Maroof Shah, and Zaffar Iqbal, echoed these sentiments, each highlighting unique aspects of prevention, support networks, and destigmatizing addiction.
As the panel discussion concluded, the stage was set for the enthusiastic medical students of SKIMS Medical College to showcase their talent and knowledge through a poster and presentation competition. The room buzzed with creativity and innovation as future doctors presented their research on addiction and prevention strategies. The winners, brimming with ideas and fueled by a commitment to change, were celebrated and rewarded with mementos and certificates of appreciation.
The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of department heads, faculty members, and eager participants. Expert judges in their respective fields, including Dr Nizam ud Din, Dr Manzoor Ahmad Teli, and Dr Beenish, meticulously evaluated the entries, ensuring that the best ideas were recognized and honored.
Dr Yasmeen Jan, Assistant Professor of Community Medicine, extended heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the resounding success of the event. The SKIMS Medical College community left the auditorium that day, more determined than ever to combat the scourge of drug addiction, armed with knowledge, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to creating a better society.
