Shopian youth undertakes solo run from Uri to Dubjan to highlight drug abuse

SRINAGAR — A young boy from southern Kashmir’s Shopian district, Danish Hameed Mir, embarked on a solo run on Friday morning from Kaman Post in the Uri sector of Baramulla, aiming to reach the village of Dubjan in his native Shopian district on Saturday. The initiative by Danish, hailing from Hydergund Zainapora, is focused on raising awareness about the escalating issue of drug abuse among the youth and emphasizing the urgent need for a robust drug de-addiction campaign.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse during his run, Danish articulated his goal of conveying a strong message to young people about the critical importance of staying away from the clutches of drug abuse for the overall well-being of society.

He stressed the potential of youth to excel in various fields, such as sports and academics, if their energies are channelled positively, thereby contributing not only to their personal and familial growth but also to the larger community.

Danish expressed his gratitude towards the district administration and the Jammu and Kashmir Police for their support. His attire, a white half-sleeve shirt emblazoned with the message “Say No To Drugs, 1 Rastriya Rifles, Team One, Indian Army,” indicated that his awareness campaign received significant backing from the Indian Army.

He also conveyed his appreciation for the Indian Army, DDC Member Aijaz Ahmad Mir, and several other individuals who encouraged his endeavour.

Notably, Danish was accompanied by an ambulance and a police jeep throughout his run, which traversed four districts of the Valley: Baramulla, Srinagar, Pulwama and finally, Shopian. This logistical support ensured his safety and facilitated the smooth progress of his awareness drive across the districts.

It is important to mention here that Danish Hameed’s initiative brings the focus to the growing concern within the Valley regarding the prevalence of drug abuse among young people and highlights the proactive role that individuals are taking to address this critical social issue.

His long-distance solo run serves as a symbol of determination and a call to action for a concerted effort towards drug de-addiction and the empowerment of the youth in Kashmir.