CM Omar highlights civic responsibility
Says public’s role crucial beyond govt efforts
Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday underscored the need for collective responsibility in addressing key social challenges such as drug addiction, mental health and environmental safeguards, asserting that while several responsibilities lie with the government, many must be shared by society as a whole.
He made the remarks while launching a three-day divisional-level awareness programme organised by the School Education Department at the convention centre here.
Addressing a large gathering of students and stakeholders, the chief minister drew a distinction between responsibilities that fall solely within the government’s domain — such as building roads, bridges and hospitals — and those requiring active public participation.
“Besides the government, the public has a crucial role in maintaining environmental safeguards and key public assets as part of their civic responsibility,” he said.
Highlighting civic responsibility, Abdullah expressed concern over the tendency to shift blame entirely onto the government, particularly in matters like cleanliness, and urged citizens to adopt responsible behaviour in their daily lives.
He said a cleaner and better society can only be achieved through collective efforts and noted that with active public participation, Jammu and Kashmir can match global standards.
“If you act on the pledges taken today, we can compete not just within the country but with the world,” he said, calling upon the younger generation to help build a more responsible society.
Touching upon mental health, Abdullah said the issue continues to be stigmatised and urged people to show empathy towards those facing psychological challenges. “Even a few words of sympathy can make a difference and give someone the courage to overcome difficult times,” he said.
Regarding drug abuse, the chief minister stressed that the fight against the menace cannot be won by the government alone and called upon civil society, educational institutions, religious leaders and citizens to contribute towards making the Union Territory drug-free.
“If we leave it to the government alone, we will not succeed. Everyone has to play their part,” he asserted.
Highlighting environmental responsibility, Abdullah advocated for plantation drives and suggested a shift from ceremonial gestures to meaningful contributions.
“Instead of shawls, plant trees in our name. Even if a few survive, it will be a lasting contribution,” he said, adding that environmental protection is a shared duty.
The chief minister also advised students to reduce excessive screen time and focus on holistic development, expressing confidence that the younger generation can drive meaningful change if guided properly.
On the occasion, Omar Abdullah administered a pledge focusing on mental health awareness, drug de-addiction, career counselling, traffic safety and environmental protection.
He also distributed innovation kits and stationery kits sponsored by Bharti Airtel, sanitation kits sponsored by SBI Foundation, and outdoor equipment under Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The Chief Minister also felicitated resource persons and experts associated with the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo said that the enthusiastic participation of students reflects their commitment towards societal development. She described the awareness campaign as a unique opportunity to address pressing issues such as mental health, drug addiction, environmental protection, traffic awareness and career guidance.
She called upon all stakeholders to actively participate in the campaign and emphasized the importance of collective action. “If every student, ICDS worker and healthcare professional plants a tree, it can bring significant change in environmental protection and sustainability,” she said.
The Minister also stressed the need for united efforts to combat drug abuse, urging the youth to come forward to safeguard their future and that of Jammu & Kashmir.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, in his address, emphasized the importance of adhering to laws and instilling awareness among younger generations from an early age. He also highlighted the need for continuous awareness campaigns to combat drug abuse.
MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta called for active involvement of civil society in eradicating the drug menace and appreciated the leadership of the Chief Minister, expressing optimism about the region’s progress and prosperity.
The event was attended by Director School Education Jammu Naseem Javaid Choudhary, Director Social Welfare Department Jammu, other senior officers, and a large number of students. Participants from all ten districts of Jammu division also joined the programme through online mode.
