SRINAGAR, Feb 19: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon Friday said sports activities should be boosted in the state to counter the menace of drug addiction.

While holding an extensive interaction with the members of various civil society members and social activists, Dr. Samoon said the drug abuse can be dealt with strong collective will of the society.  He said sports can be powerful tool with which the menace can be eradicated. He said the sports activities will not only help youth to showcase their talent but will also keep them away from drugs and other such activities.

During the meeting, which was also attended by officials of Youth Services and Sports, J&K Sports Council, Director Police Drug de-addiction Centre PCR Srinagar, Dr. Arshid Hussain of Psychiatric Disease GMC Srinagar and editor of a sports magazine in Srinagar. Deputy Commissioners of all the districts including Leh and Kargil were also part in the meeting viavideo conference.

Dr. Samoon directed Youth Services and Sports officials to frame sports calendar for upcoming season to involve youths in various sports activities. He said private institutions will be roped in to sponsor various sports tournaments to uplift the sports activities in the state.

Giving details about the current year activities, officials of Youth Services and Sports said during the current year, state bagged 5 gold medals, 10 silver and 23 Bronze medals in various sports activities at national level.

The Divisional Commissioner said the Department of Education should take a lead in curtailing drug menace by organizing awareness campaigns in educational institutions.

He directed the Deputy Commissioners to prepare and issue sports calendar at district levels and in educational institutions.

He also asked them to identify red zones where drug addiction level is high and start sports and other recreational activities in such areas besides holding awareness campaigns.

During the meeting Director, Police Drug De-addiction Centre said the department will hold a week long training program with Physical Education teachers to sensitize them about drug menace.

Dr. Samoon said government will also partner with the civil society and religious groups in Kashmir to tackle the growing drug menace.