NEWS

Comprehensive Platform to be Established for Anti-Drug Campaign: HGVS

Shimla, August 4, 2024 – A comprehensive platform is set to be established to bolster the campaign against drug abuse. This initiative was discussed during the fifth session of the Jan Swasthya Kendra (Public Health Center), organized jointly by the State Resource Center, Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti, and the Public Health Center. The session, held at the state office in Shimla, was presided over by retired Joint Director of the Health Department, Dr. B.D. Sharma.

Launched on April 7, 2024, the Jan Swasthya Kendra holds its sessions on the first Sunday of every month. State Secretary of the Committee, Satyawan Pundir, outlined three primary areas of intervention in the health sector:

  1. Monthly Health Clinics: On the first Sunday of each month, a public health clinic will be set up at the Jan Swasthya Kendra. Services will include tests for diabetes, ECG, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and general health check-ups.
  2. Anti-Drug Campaign: The committee will continue its anti-drug campaign by bringing together various institutions on a common platform to combat drug abuse.
  3. Opposition to Privatization: The privatization and commercialization of healthcare are serious concerns. The committee stands against these trends and will oppose them.

Dr. B.D. Sharma emphasized that strengthening internal systems is crucial before tackling the supply chain of drugs. He stressed that without community support, it is impossible to curb drug abuse. The social fabric, which appears to be unraveling, needs to be mended. Shifting responsibility from one party to another will not solve the problem.

Key points highlighted during the discussion included the need for parental guidance in children’s upbringing, overcoming the stigma around counseling, recognizing and nurturing children’s talents, promoting harmonious behavior, understanding adolescent issues, maintaining positive communication at home, and encouraging children to engage in socialization processes to become responsible citizens.

Retired College Principal Dr. Reena Singh concluded the discussion by emphasizing the need to eliminate the stigma associated with drug use and youth in society. She highlighted the crucial role of parents in this effort.

State Vice President of the Committee, Jiyanand Sharma, urged for dialogue with the youth on August 12, International Youth Day.

Director Dr. O.P. Bhureta thanked the participants for their meaningful discussions, highlighting the importance of these conversations in addressing public health and societal issues.

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