FROM CLASSROOMS TO THE FRONTLINE AGAINST NARCO-TERRORISM: ZAHID MANZOOR’S INSPIRING MISSION

Kashmir’s future rests in the hands of its young generation, whose dreams, determination and casts a dark shadow over lives of our youth, threatening not only their health and education but also shattering their dreams,dignity their aspirations and robbing them of the bright future choices have shape the Valley in the years ahead. Yet the rising menace of drug abuse. Beyond its impact on individuals and families, the illegal drug trade can also become a security concern when drug networks are used to generate funds for terrorism and destabilise society. In this situation, awareness, education and community participation are essential weapons in the fight against narco-terrorism. An inspiring example of youth-led awareness comes from Zahid Manzoor, a Class 10 student from Budgam, who has transformed his personal challenges into a mission to protect others from drug abuse.

Zahid, together with his teacher Yusuf, has created a 48-minute film that is being screened in schools across Kashmir. Their initiative demonstrates how education can extend beyond textbooks and examinations to address pressing social concerns. Through cinema, they are bringing the message of a drug-free life into classrooms, encouraging students to understand the consequences of substance abuse and the importance of making informed decisions. Zahid’s powerful statement, “The disability is not in me. It is in those who are taking drugs,” reflects his determination to challenge harmful choices and inspire others through his experience. His efforts show that a young person does not need to hold a position of authority to contribute meaningfully to society.

The connection between drug trafficking and terrorism makes this awareness effort particularly significant. Narco-terrorism refers broadly to the relationship between illegal drug activities and terrorist organisations, including situations in which drug trafficking generates funds for violent networks or criminal groups support activities that threaten national security. Such activities can exploit vulnerable communities, undermine public safety and place young people at risk. Although drug abuse and narco-terrorism are not the same problem, they can intersect when organised criminal networks use the illegal drug trade to support terrorist activities. Preventing substance abuse, discouraging drug trafficking and reporting suspicious activity through lawful channels are therefore important elements of a wider effort to protect society. Awareness initiatives such as Zahid’s film can help students recognise the dangers of drugs and understand why a healthy, informed and responsible generation is essential to a secure Kashmir.

Schools have a crucial role in this mission. Teachers, parents, counsellors and community leaders can work together to create environments where young people feel comfortable seeking guidance and discussing difficult issues. Drug prevention education should focus not only on the harmful effects of substance abuse but also on building confidence, resilience and healthy habits. Sports, cultural activities, skill development and constructive engagement can provide young people with positive opportunities to use their energy and talent. Equally important is the need to approach people affected by addiction with compassion and encourage them to seek professional support. Prevention, timely intervention, rehabilitation and social acceptance can help individuals rebuild their lives while reducing the vulnerability that criminal networks may exploit.

Zahid Manzoor’s initiative offers a valuable lesson for the youth of Kashmir: meaningful change can begin with one idea, one classroom and one determined individual. His collaboration with his teacher highlights the importance of mentorship in transforming youthful determination into constructive action. As his film reaches more students, its message can encourage discussions within schools, families and communities about the dangers of drugs and the importance of protecting the next generation. The fight against narco-terrorism requires coordinated action by law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, families and responsible citizens. Every young person who chooses a healthy path, every teacher who spreads awareness and every community that supports prevention contributes to a stronger society. By turning awareness into action, Kashmir’s youth can help build a future in which education defeats ignorance, hope overcomes addiction and the aspirations of a generation remain beyond the reach of drugs and violence.