Srinagar: In a remarkable move against substance abuse, a small village in Jammu and Kashmir has declared itself completely tobacco- and drug-free, making it the first of its kind in the region. No shop in the village sells cigarettes, gutka, or any form of narcotics, and residents have taken it upon themselves to ensure a strict no-smoking policy in public spaces.
For 65-year-old Abdul Rahman, who lost his son to drug addiction five years ago, this initiative is deeply personal. Standing outside his modest home, he wipes his eyes as he says, “If only this rule existed earlier, my son might still be here.”
The decision to ban tobacco and drugs was not enforced by the government but was a collective effort by the villagers. Community leaders, elders, and youth came together to address the growing crisis of substance abuse in Kashmir, where thousands of young people have fallen into addiction amid conflict and unemployment.
“I used to smoke two packs a day,” admits 24-year-old Faisal, a former addict now leading awareness campaigns. “But when my own village decided to fight this battle, I realized I had to change too.”
The initiative has not been without challenges. Some shopkeepers initially resisted, fearing loss of income. However, the community supported them by encouraging alternative businesses. “We now sell fresh produce and local handicrafts instead,” says shop owner Shafiq Ahmed.
Health professionals have praised the village’s efforts, calling it a rare and inspiring example of grassroots action against addiction.
As word spreads, other villages are beginning to take notice. “If they can do it, why can’t we?” asks a local from a neighboring district. The village’s fight is far from over, but it has lit a spark of hope across Kashmir.
