Tahir Bhat Banhali

Kishtwar, July 23 — In a significant step toward combating the rising drug menace among youth, the G. R. Beigh Memorial Foundation has announced a Barefoot March to be held in Kishtwar on 27th July. The march, led by Mr. Ishtiyaq Beigh, Chairman of the Foundation, aims to generate awareness about the alarming increase in drug addiction in the region and inspire communities—especially the younger generation—to strive for a healthier, drug-free future.

The Foundation received a deeply encouraging endorsement from Prof. Mukun Lal Sharma, renowned cardiovascular thoracic surgeon, former Professor at CVTS, and currently the President of the G. R. Beigh Memorial Foundation. Despite being on dialysis and facing severe health challenges in his old age, Dr. Sharma remains steadfast in his commitment to societal change. He extended heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Beigh for leading such a bold initiative and described him as a “torchbearer of youth reform.”

The Foundation expressed its deep admiration for Dr. Sharma’s unshaken resolve and moral courage, calling him a beacon of inspiration. “Even while battling illness, Dr. Sharma continues to stand by grassroots movements for change. His unwavering support to the cause, and his belief in changemakers like Mr. Beigh, is a testament to his extraordinary dedication toward the welfare of society,” the Foundation said in a statement.

G. R. Beigh Memorial Foundation urges civil society groups, schools, colleges, religious institutions, and local leaders to participate actively in the march and contribute to a united front against drug addiction.

The march is expected to mark not only a symbolic protest but also the beginning of a broader, long-term campaign to restore hope, dignity, and health in the lives of the region’s youth.