MAY 07: The Forest Division of Bhaderwah has launched a major anti-cannabis operation under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, targeting the spread of wild cannabis cultivation in forest areas.
As part of the 100-day anti-drug campaign, teams from the Territorial Forest Department and the Forest Protection Force are actively removing wild cannabis plants, commonly known as ganja and bhang, from dense forest patches in the Kellar Range.
The drive is being supervised by Range Officer Shafqat Malik, who is leading field teams engaged in large-scale clearance operations. Officials stated that the initiative is aimed at preventing the misuse of forest land for illegal narcotic growth and reducing the spread of substance abuse in the region.
Alongside the eradication campaign, forest officials are also conducting awareness programmes in remote schools located near forest areas. Students are being educated about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the social consequences linked to illegal narcotic cultivation.
Divisional Forest Officer Devinder Kumar said that the anti-cannabis drive has been launched simultaneously in several forest ranges, including Kellar, Neeru, Chirala, and Bhalessa. According to officials, nearly 100 acres of forest land have already been cleared of wild cannabis growth during the operation.
He emphasized that the campaign is part of broader efforts to strengthen action against narcotics and protect forest ecosystems from unlawful activities. Authorities believe that continuous monitoring and public awareness are essential to effectively combat drug-related issues in remote areas.
Officials further stated that the operation reflects strong coordination between forest protection agencies and local authorities in support of the larger mission to build a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative has been welcomed by local residents, who believe such drives will help protect youth from drug abuse and discourage illegal cultivation activities in forest regions.
With sustained action and community participation, the Bhaderwah Forest Division aims to continue its efforts against narcotics while promoting awareness and environmental protection.
