District De-Addiction Centre (DDAC), Leh marked a historic milestone with the successful discharge of its first recovering individual — a sign of hope in the region’s growing efforts to combat substance dependence through structured care, counselling and rehabilitation.

The occasion was more than a formal discharge; it symbolised a new beginning — not only for the individual and his family, but also for the community striving to build a healthier, drug-free society.

The programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Leh, Ghulam Mohd (JKAS); DySP (HQ) Leh, Rishab Shukla, IPS; District Social and Tribal Welfare Officer Leh, Mohd Safdar Bhat (JKAS); Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Padma Angmo; the LBA Youth Wing Advisor; officials of DDAC Leh; and the parent of the recovering individual. Their presence reflected a coordinated administrative and community effort to address substance abuse with compassion and accountability.

Currently, six male recovering individuals are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation at the Centre. The discharged individual had been admitted for one month and completed a comprehensive programme that included medical supervision, psychiatric care, therapeutic counselling and structured behavioural rehabilitation. Officials described his recovery as steady and encouraging, achieved through consistent professional support and active family involvement.

Healthcare professionals at the Centre emphasised that substance dependence is not a moral failing but a health condition that requires timely intervention, sustained counselling and community support. The discharge serves as a testament to the effectiveness of structured rehabilitation and the importance of early treatment.

Speaking on the occasion, the Additional Deputy Commissioner underscored that recovery does not end at discharge. He highlighted the administration’s commitment to ensuring long-term rehabilitation through livelihood support, skill development programmes and facilitation for self-employment and small business initiatives. “The objective is not merely to treat but to reintegrate individuals into society with dignity and financial independence,” he noted.

The LBA Youth Wing Advisor praised the initiative, stressing that prevention must go hand in hand with treatment. He called for greater youth engagement, awareness campaigns and community-driven efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and discourage substance abuse. The Youth Wing expressed its readiness to collaborate with the administration in outreach and awareness programmes across the district.

Officials also outlined plans for sustained post-rehabilitation support, including regular follow-up counselling, family guidance sessions and structured reintegration strategies. These measures aim to reduce relapse risks and ensure long-term recovery.

Alongside treatment efforts, the District Administration is intensifying awareness drives in schools and communities while strengthening inter-departmental coordination to address substance abuse comprehensively.

The District De-Addiction Centre, Leh, continues to function as a dedicated facility offering medical treatment, psychological counselling and rehabilitation services. The successful discharge of its first recovering individual stands as a powerful reminder that recovery is possible — and that with collective will, professional care and community support, new beginnings can indeed take root in Ladakh.