A collective initiative by LASMoN Society to empower the youth and build a drug-free Ladakh
On 20 August 2026, LASMoN Society, UT Ladakh, organised “Voices Against Drugs – A Youth Awareness Programme” in Leh, bringing together students, educators, healthcare professionals, spiritual leaders, law-enforcement agencies, artists, volunteers and members of civil society around one urgent and powerful message: Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.
The initiative was conceived as a platform to create awareness among young people about the growing dangers of substance abuse and, more importantly, to encourage them to make healthy, positive and responsible choices.
The programme was honoured by the presence of Choskyong Palga Rinpoche as the Chief Guest, whose participation added a strong message of compassion, responsibility and community awareness. Distinguished guests including Dr. T.C. Satish, Specialist Dermatologist, Medeor Hospital, Dubai; Dr. Padma Angmo, SNM Hospital, Leh; Dy. SP Leh Mr. Reshab Saheb, Ms. Suchetha Satish and other guests and supporters also contributed to the programme.
Putting youth at the centre
A defining feature of the initiative was its focus on young people as active participants rather than simply an audience.
Students of the University of Ladakh participated enthusiastically, while students of Saboo Kunsal Model School presented powerful skits highlighting the consequences of drug abuse. Their performances demonstrated how young people themselves can become effective voices for awareness and positive social change.
The Ache Deachen Leh team further strengthened the message through an impactful drama centred on the theme:
“Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.”
By using theatre, music, performance and dialogue, the programme sought to communicate a serious social message in a manner that was engaging, accessible and memorable.
A community-wide effort
The initiative also demonstrated that preventing substance abuse is a collective responsibility.
The programme received valuable support from the Ladakh Police Band, ITBP, PDD Leh, University of Ladakh, Saboo Kunsal Model School, artists, cultural groups, volunteers and numerous individuals.
Special appreciation was extended to Mr. Tsering Mutup and team, Bangbo Tenhouse, Mr. Stanzin Gendun and team, Mr. Dorjay Stakmo and team, Mr. Phurbu Chuksa, Ravi Nima and team, Mr. Phuntsog Kurja and team, and the many artists and volunteers who contributed their time and talent.
The generous support of Dr. Ranjan Sir and Buimerc India also played an important role in making the programme possible.
More than an awareness programme
“Voices Against Drugs” was envisioned as more than a one-day event. It was an attempt to begin a broader conversation about the health and future of Ladakh’s youth.
Drug abuse affects not only individuals but families, educational institutions and communities. Addressing the issue therefore requires awareness, early intervention, supportive families, responsible institutions and continued engagement with young people.
LASMoN Society’s initiative seeks to contribute to this larger effort by creating platforms where young people can learn, participate and raise their own voices against substance abuse.
The programme also highlighted the importance of providing youth with positive alternatives — education, creativity, sports, culture, community participation and meaningful opportunities that allow them to channel their energy towards constructive goals.
A message for Ladakh’s future
The strength of “Voices Against Drugs” lay in its collective character. Spiritual leadership, medical expertise, education, policing, culture and youth participation came together under one common cause.
The initiative sent a clear message: protecting the future of Ladakh requires protecting its youth.
LASMoN Society hopes that the programme will become a starting point for continued awareness, dialogue and community action against substance abuse.
Because the fight against drugs cannot be won by one organisation or one event alone. It requires an entire community to stand together.
One voice can create awareness.
Many voices can create change.
Voices Against Drugs — Say No to Drugs. Say Yes to Life.
