Srinagar, Sep 25, KNT: Alarmed by the growing menace of drug abuse among school-going children, the Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department has issued a fresh circular mandating strict preventive measures in all government and recognised private schools as well as coaching and tuition centres across the Union Territory.
The circular stresses that drug addiction among students not only endangers their health and future but also undermines the very purpose of education. The department has directed institutions to adopt deterrent mechanisms with immediate effect.
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According to the order, teachers and staff members are required to frisk students at the time of entry to prevent the carrying of prohibited or intoxicating substances. Random frisking during school hours has also been made compulsory to ensure constant vigilance. Heads of institutions have been instructed to carry out regular inspections and to document and address suspicious behaviour without delay.
Each school must frame a “Drug-Free School Policy” that clearly outlines prohibitions, reporting mechanisms, and disciplinary consequences. In addition, vigilance committees comprising teachers, parents, and student representatives will be set up to maintain a safe and drug-free environment.
The circular further calls for the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras in schools and coaching centres. Vulnerable areas such as canteens, secluded corners, and nearby establishments like tuck shops will be kept under strict monitoring.
To deal with cases related to drug abuse, every school must designate a teaching official as a trained counsellor, while counselling cells will be established in all institutions. The Directorate, in collaboration with SCERT, DIETs, and IMHANS, will organize special training programmes for these officials.
For immediate assistance, the government has announced the establishment of a dedicated Drug Abuse Prevention Helpline at the Directorates of School Education J&K. Cases of student abuse or negligence by school authorities are to be reported directly to this helpline, which will forward them to concerned agencies for swift action.
The circular also emphasizes the role of awareness and parental involvement. Schools have been asked to organize regular awareness programmes, seminars, and cultural activities highlighting the ill effects of drug abuse. Police, IMHANS, NGOs, and teacher education institutes will collaborate with schools for sustained sensitization campaigns.
Special parent-teacher meetings focusing on early detection of drug abuse have also been made mandatory, with parents being encouraged to play a proactive role in prevention. Meanwhile, institutions have been instructed to engage students in positive and constructive activities as a safeguard against addiction.
Officials said the measures are aimed at protecting young minds from harmful influences and preserving the sanctity of education. “Schools and coaching centres are not only places of learning but also of character formation. Safeguarding students from the drug menace is essential to secure their well-being and the future of our society.” [KNT]
