Reasi, June 11:In a significant move to further strengthen the fight against drug abuse, the District Administration Reasi, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Reasi Ms. Nidhi Malik, IAS, has designated Paralympian Para Archer and Arjuna Awardee Shri Rakesh Kumar as the Brand Ambassador for the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan from District Reasi.
This initiative aims to harness the inspirational journey of Shri Rakesh Kumar—an international athlete who hails from Reasi and has brought immense pride to the nation through his achievements despite physical challenges. His appointment is expected to encourage youth to pursue sports and healthy lifestyles while staying away from substance abuse. Rakesh Kumar, a para-archer from Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, has emerged as a symbol of resilience and excellence.
After a spinal injury in 2010 left him wheelchair-bound, he took up archery in 2017 and rapidly rose through the ranks. He won gold at the 2022 Asian Para Games and the 2023 World Para Archery Championships, and represented India at the Tokyo Paralympics. In 2024, he made history by winning a bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics—J&K’s first-ever Olympic medal. For his achievements, he was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2025.
Deputy Commissioner Ms. Nidhi Malik emphasized the importance of role models in shaping young minds and stated that Shri Rakesh Kumar’s life is a powerful message of resilience, discipline, and determination. She further noted that the District Administration, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department Reasi, headed by DSWO Mr. Sachin Sharma, is committed to intensifying awareness campaigns, community engagement, and outreach programs as part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign). The 26-day-long campaign, which began on June 1, will continue until June 26, covering various parts of the district. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rakesh Kumar expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the honor and pledged his full support to the cause.He shared a powerful message urging the youth to believe in themselves, choose the right path, and contribute to building a drug-free, empowered society.
He emphasised that The path to success is paved not with drugs, but with hard work.He also encouraged youth to divert their energy towards sports through which they can achieve great heights.DSWO Sachin Sharma, DIO(info) Ujwal Sambyal,officials from Social welfare Department were also present during the event.
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