The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has highlighted the recovery of a young man from Jammu and Kashmir who overcame substance dependence through treatment and rehabilitation. The case demonstrates how structured intervention programmes can help people return to productive lives and rejoin their families and communities.
Sajjad, a 25-year-old graduate and regional cricketer from Budgam district in Central Kashmir, had seen his health, career and family relationships damaged by substance dependence. He received support through CHAARAH SAAZ, a District De-Addiction Centre operating under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR).
What the intervention included
At CHAARAH SAAZ in Budgam, Sajjad received a range of services at no cost:
- Medical detoxification and treatment with ongoing medical supervision
- Individual and family counselling and psychological care
- Nutritional support, fitness sessions and yoga
- Computer and digital literacy training
- Skill development and sports reintegration support
- Livelihood guidance and regular follow-up care
The programme helped him regain physical health, build emotional strength and restore confidence in himself.
What this means for you
If substance dependence is affecting you or someone you know, treatment centres like CHAARAH SAAZ offer free medical and counselling support. Early intervention can prevent damage to education, employment, family life and personal goals. Sajjad’s case shows that recovery is possible with proper treatment, family involvement and sustained follow-up. He has now returned to cricket and participates in awareness campaigns under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, using his recovery to encourage others to seek help and choose a drug-free life.