Jammu, May 22 -- Srinagar, May 22 (KNS) Amid rising concerns over substance abuse among youth, Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Wednesday called for a comprehensive roadmap and an institutionalised awareness mechanism across all educational institutions and coaching centres in the Union Territory to identify and prevent drug abuse at an early stage.

Chairing a high-level meeting here on strengthening drug de-addiction, mental health awareness, and rehabilitation measures, Itoo stressed the need for a coordinated, society-wide response involving government departments, educational institutions, parents, civil society, and healthcare professionals.

"Educational ins...