Shopian district observes International Day of Light with candle marches against drug abuse

SHOPIAN, May 16, 2026:- Candle marches were held across Shopian district under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan to mark the International Day of Light and spread awareness against drug abuse.

The Municipal Council Shopian organized a primary march led by Additional Deputy Commissioner Zakir Hussain Faaz and Chief Executive Officer Suhail Ahmad. Members of the civil society, the Traders Federation, local youth, government officials, and the general public participated in the event to promote the message of a drug-free society.

The Rural Development Department simultaneously conducted candle marches across all community development blocks and panchayats of the district as part of the broader awareness campaign. Educational institutions also illuminated their school premises to mark the occasion and express solidarity with the anti-drug movement.

Various other departments organized similar awareness activities in different parts of the district, where participants carried candles, banners, and posters to symbolize unity and social responsibility in the fight against substance abuse.

Anti-drug pledges were taken at multiple venues, bringing together local representatives and field functionaries to work collectively toward the vision of a drug-free community.