Katra: As part of the ongoing student induction program for first-year students at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Dr. Beena Jad, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Lab Medicine, delivered an impactful expert lecture on the pressing issue of drug abuse. Her talk, warmly introduced by Prof. Balbir Singh, Dean of Academic Affairs, focused on the alarming consequences of substance abuse and its detrimental effects on mental and physical well-being, particularly among the youth. Dr. Beena emphasized the importance of awareness and preventive strategies to combat drug abuse, aiming to equip students with the knowledge to steer clear of harmful substances and understand the broader societal implications.
This insightful presentation was a key highlight of the induction program, building on an earlier session led by Dr. Varun Dutta, Nodal Officer for the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at SMVDU. Dr. Dutta’s talk featured educational videos showcasing the dangerous effects of drug addiction, reinforcing the university’s commitment to student well-being and awareness.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, allowing students to engage actively and clarify their doubts. Preceding this, another session by Mr. Sumant S. Sharma, Assistant Professor at SMVDU, focused on “Harmony in Relationships,” further enriching the holistic development of the students.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Pragati Kumar, underscored the importance of a balanced approach to education, emphasizing that academic and extracurricular activities are equally vital for the all-round growth of students. The induction program, meticulously coordinated by a dedicated team of faculty members including Dr. Pooja Sharma, Dr. Anil Bhardwaj, Dr. Madhu Mangal Chaturvedi, Dr. Varun Dutta, Dr. Bharat Bhushan Jindal, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Dr. Amit Sinha, and Dr. Kamaldeep, aims to guide new students as they begin their academic journey, providing them with the necessary tools for personal and academic success.