20 May: A street play focusing on drug awareness and social responsibility was organised at Bahu Plaza in Jammu as part of the ongoing anti-drug campaign being conducted across the Union Territory.
The awareness programme was jointly organised by Jammu Police in collaboration with Natarang to educate the public, particularly youth, about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of building a drug-free society.
The event witnessed the presence of DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range Shridhar Patil, Padmashree awardee and Natarang founder Balwant Thakur, police officials, students, artists, and local residents.
Through powerful dramatic performances and social messaging, the street play highlighted the destructive impact of drug addiction on individuals, families, and society. The artists used theatre as a medium to spread awareness about the physical, emotional, and social consequences associated with substance abuse.
The performance attracted significant public attention at Bahu Plaza, with spectators appreciating the creative effort to communicate an important social issue through cultural expression.
Addressing the gathering, DIG Shridhar Patil stressed the importance of public participation in combating the growing drug menace. He appreciated the efforts of artists and organisers for using art and theatre as tools for awareness and community engagement.
He also felicitated the participating artists for their contribution to the anti-drug awareness campaign.
Padmashree Balwant Thakur said artists across Jammu and Kashmir are actively supporting the ongoing 100-day anti-drug campaign through similar street plays and cultural awareness programmes in different districts.
According to him, theatre and performing arts can play an effective role in reaching communities, especially young people, by presenting social realities in a relatable and impactful manner.
The anti-drug campaign being carried out in Jammu and Kashmir aims to strengthen awareness, prevention, and public participation against substance abuse. Authorities have increasingly focused on awareness drives in schools, colleges, marketplaces, and public spaces to encourage collective action against drug addiction.
Experts believe awareness campaigns involving students, artists, and civil society groups can help create stronger community resistance against drug abuse while encouraging healthier social environments.
The programme at Bahu Plaza also reflected growing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and cultural organisations in addressing social challenges through public engagement initiatives.
Officials said similar awareness programmes will continue across the region as part of broader efforts to sensitise people about the dangers of drugs and encourage youth to stay away from addiction.
The event concluded with appreciation for the artists and organisers who contributed to spreading awareness through meaningful social theatre.
