Early Times Report JAMMU, Oct 12: The State Cancer Institute (SCI), Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, organised a series of awareness activities to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Day and promote the Nasha Mukti (drug-free India) campaign through an e-pledge and student participation. The programme was organised under the directions of Principal and Dean, GMC Jammu, Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, with the coordination of Deputy Medical Superintendent, Dr. Deepak Kumar, Dr.Sanjogita Soodan Dy.M.S Superspeciality Hospital and the active support of the faculty and senior staff of the State Cancer Institute and participating nursing colleges. As part of the programme, Dr. Sabha from the Department of Preventive Oncology delivered an awareness lecture on breast cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection, awareness of warning signs, timely medical consultation and appropriate screening. The session aimed to encourage women to seek medical advice without delay and to spread awareness about the importance of early diagnosis in improving treatment outcomes. A poster competition was also organised on breast cancer awareness and Nasha Mukti, providing students an opportunity to express their understanding of cancer prevention, healthy lifestyles and the harmful consequences of substance abuse through creative and educational messages. To further strengthen the anti-drug awareness campaign, students presented a nukkad natak (street play) on Nasha Mukti, highlighting the adverse effects of substance abuse on individuals, families and society. The performance conveyed a message of prevention, awareness and collective responsibility in building a healthier, drug-free society. Participants were also encouraged to take the e-pledge and reaffirm their commitment to a drug-free India. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from nursing students of Rajiv Gandhi Nursing College, Government Nursing College, Gangyal, and Bee Enn Nursing College, along with faculty members and staff of the State Cancer Institute. Addressing the broader objective of the initiative, the programme emphasised that awareness, early detection, community participation and preventive healthcare are essential pillars in the fight against cancer and substance abuse. The involvement of nursing students was particularly significant in promoting health education, as nursing professionals play a vital role in reaching communities and encouraging healthy behaviours. The initiative reflects the commitment of the State Cancer Institute, GMC Jammu, to strengthening cancer awareness, preventive oncology and public health outreach, while actively contributing to the national movement towards a healthier and drug-free India. |