Substance abuse is a growing public health and socioeconomic concern in India. It affects millions of people and their families, regardless of area, age, or socioeconomic status. With rising drug abuse, particularly among young people, India is at a crossroads where strong, coordinated action is required—both to limit the problem now and to secure a healthy, drug-free future.
WHAT IS SUBSTANCE ABUSE?
Substance abuse is defined as the excessive or hazardous use of psychoactive substances such as illegal drugs, prescription pharmaceuticals, or alcohol.
The substances most commonly misused in India are:
Cannabis (ganja, charas, bhang)
Heroin and Opium (Smack, cocaine, Morphine, Brown Sugar)
Synthetic substances (MDMA, LSD, Amphetamine, Methaqualone and methamphetamine)
Prescription medications (codeine-based cough syrups, Tramadol, and benzodiazepines)
Alcohol and Tobacco
Substance abuse harms both the brain and the body, frequently resulting in addiction, mental health disorders, aggression, criminality, and even death.
☠️CURRENT SCENARIO IN INDIA:
According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's 2019 survey:
Over 16 crore people in India consume alcohol.
3.1 crore individuals consume cannabis products.
2.3 crore individuals use opioids, which include heroin and prescription opioids.
Only one out of every ten patients with substance use disorders receive treatment.
These figures have risen dramatically during COVID-19, with more young people turning to drugs due to stress, unemployment, and loneliness.
EXAMPLES:
1) 👿PUNJAB - Long-term Epidemic:
Punjab has the highest rate of drug dependence in India. Punjab's border areas quickly became crossing locations for traffickers smuggling heroin from Afghanistan through Pakistan. The state's proximity to the 'Golden Crescent' (Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan), which is the global illicit drug trade hub, has caused it to suffer greatly from the dangers of trafficking.
Data shows that approximately 950,000 persons (or 2.8% of the state's population) are drug dependent.
Despite awareness campaigns like the "Nasha Mukti Yatra" and WhatsApp helplines, the state confronts issues such as inadequate rehabilitation infrastructure and a shortage of skilled addiction professionals.
2) 👺KERALA - Rising Addiction:
Kerala, which was formerly relatively unscathed, is currently facing a significant increase in drug consumption, particularly synthetic narcotics.
In 2024, 27,701 NDPS cases were submitted, which is three times more than Punjab.
Kerala has the highest rate of NDPS cases in India, at 78 per lakh population.
Teenage drug usage is increasing significantly, with more kids taking party drugs and prescription medicines.
The government has begun community-driven operations, with student volunteers doing house-to-house anti-drug surveys, yet the issue worsens.
WHY IS SUBSTANCE ABUSE RISING IN INDIA?
🚨 Key Contributing Factors:
1. Peer Pressure and Social Influence, especially among teenagers and young people.
2. Mental Health Issues - Stress, anxiety, and sadness are common drivers.
3. Unemployment and Poverty - Leads to hopelessness and drug use.
4. Easy Access - Weak border control and local networks make narcotics available.
5. Media and Pop Culture Influence - Drug use is glamorized in movies and on social media platforms.
6. Family Dysfunction: Abuse, neglect, and shattered households are key causes.
7. Lack of Education and Awareness: Many people are ignorant of the long-term implications.
8. Migration and Isolation - Migrant workers frequently experience loneliness and substance addiction.
9. Inadequate Rehabilitation Infrastructure - Most districts lack competent de-addiction facilities.
LEGAL REFORMS:
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985 is the cornerstone of India's drug control strategy.
📘 Key Provisions:
The creation, possession, sale, and use of narcotic narcotics and psychotropic substances is prohibited unless medically prescribed. Punishments vary according on quantity:
Small quantities of heroin i.e <1gm can result in up to one year in jail or a ₹10,000 fine.
More than 1gm and less than 250gm: Up to 10 years and a ₹1 lakh fine.
For commercial quantities of heroin exceeding 250g, penalties include 10-20 years in prison and a fine of up to ₹2 lakh.
Repeat offenders and drug traffickers may face life in prison or execution.
Sections 35 and 54 provide for the presumption of guilt, which shifts the burden of proof on the accused.
Section 64A grants exemption from prosecution to addicts who willingly seek treatment.
HOW DO WE COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE?
⏱️Rapid Responses:
1. Crackdown on Trafficking - Use intelligence-based operations to arrest peddlers and seize drugs.
2. Emergency Helplines and Mobile Clinics - Offer 24 hour counseling and detox support.
3. School and College Checks - Implement screening, drug education, and rehabilitation referrals.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns - Use the media and influencers to spread anti-drug messaging.
5. Confidential Tip Lines - Allow individuals to report dealers (such as Punjab's WhatsApp helpline).
🌟Long-Term Measurements:
1. Drug Education Programs: Incorporate accurate, age-appropriate drug education into schools.
2. Rehabilitation Infrastructure - Create additional state-funded rehabilitation facilities with trained workers.
3. Mental Health Integration: Combine addiction treatment with psychotherapy and mental care.
4. Community Participation - Raise awareness and support among panchayats, non-governmental organizations, and youth groups.
5. Employment and Reintegration - Provide skill training and job opportunities to recovering addicts.
6. Prescription Drug Monitoring - Sedative, painkiller, and opioid sales should be strictly regulated and audited.
CONCLUSION:
Substance abuse is more than just a criminal; it is a condition that demands medical, legal, and social intervention. While law enforcement is necessary, punishing addicts will not resolve the epidemic. India needs a balanced approach that enforces the law, treats addicts, educates the youth and rehabilitates the broken. Combating substance misuse in India involves a collaborative effort by the government, civil society, schools, healthcare facilities and families. With solid commitment and compassionate policy, a drug-free India is possible—one in which youth thrive rather than survive.
No comments:
Post a Comment