Ratabari: A public awareness meeting aimed at combating drug abuse was held at Kazir Bazar, Ratabari, on Friday evening, jointly organised by the District De-Addiction Centre, Ratabari Social Service Foundation, and Aashiana Foundation.

The programme, which began at 4 PM, drew a crowd of around a hundred people from different age groups. The session aimed to raise awareness among the local population, particularly the youth, about the growing threat of drug addiction and the need for community intervention.

During the event, Kabir Ahmed, General Secretary of Wodwichee an organisation working under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India along with District De-Addiction Centre In-charge Apu Debnath, were felicitated with traditional scarves in recognition of their contributions to the cause.

Addressing the gathering, Kabir Ahmed highlighted recent research indicating a disturbing rise in drug use among youth aged 16 to 25. “To escape real-life struggles and psychological distress, many young people are turning to substance abuse,” he said. “They seek instant gratification and engage in risky behaviour, often ignoring the long-term physical and mental consequences.” He further noted that drug addiction not only harms individuals but also disrupts families and affects the larger social fabric.

Echoing these concerns, Apu Debnath stressed the importance of a strong governance framework to keep youth away from drugs. “Raising awareness is vital, but it must go hand in hand with robust law enforcement and active community and parental support,” he said. He called for a unified, multi-pronged strategy to address the menace at every level.

Other notable attendees at the event included Hussain Ahmed, renowned social worker Nizamuddin Ahmed, Sahadat Hussain, and Aashiana Foundation founder Moin Uddin. Their presence underscored the collective commitment of local stakeholders to fighting the growing challenge of substance abuse in the region.

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