The Information Department Leh’s Culture Section, in collaboration with the Education, Health, and Ladakh Police Departments, organized a drug and substance abuse awareness campaign at Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School in Leh on April 12. This campaign is part of a series of anti-substance abuse initiatives.
The awareness campaign, initiated by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, and the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh, aims to raise awareness about substance abuse.
Students from classes 5 to 12 were shown two short films titled “Trapped” and “Echoes of Redemption,” illustrating the effects of drug and substance use and how it can devastate students’ lives.
District Commissioner Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, advised students against trying drugs as the first step, emphasizing its potential to ruin lives. He urged parents to pay closer attention to their children and their daily lives, noting the prevalence of depression among youth and advising against comparisons with others. He encouraged participation in co-curricular activities and assured anonymity for those reporting drug-related issues to the administration or police.
Assistant Director of DIPR Leh, Dr. Tundup Namgial, explained that the two films were specially made for students and parents on the direction of DC Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, to convey a message about the irreversible consequences of drug use. He encouraged students to pursue passions or hobbies instead of seeking highs from drugs.
Psychiatrist and Drug De-Addiction Specialist at SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Tashi Tundup, addressed drug use as a social evil and stressed the importance of support from parents, friends, and family for those seeking to overcome addiction. He provided guidance on steps to take when combating drug use or assisting someone involved.
Principal Kunzes Angmo expressed gratitude to the District Administration for organizing the awareness campaign, noting the effectiveness of the informative films in engaging students, parents, and teachers.
Student Stanzin Dechen from class 9 of Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School emphasized the importance of maintaining one’s status as an asset as a student, cautioning against becoming a liability through drug use. She found the films motivating and inspiring her to focus more on her school life.
The event concluded with an interaction session involving the district administration, students, teachers, parents, and Dr. Tashi Tundup.
