The National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India conducted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment India through National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi has said that there are nearly 10 lakh drug addicts in Jammu and Kashmir.
The data was revealed after National Conference Member of Parliament Hasnain Masoodi in Lok Sabha sought details of total number of suspected drug addicts in the union territory.
As per the data, 1,08,000 males and 36,000 females were found using cannabis while 5,34,000 males and 8,000 females were found in the dragnet of opioids and 1,60,000 males and 8,000 females were found using sedatives of different kinds.
Likewise, 1,27,000 males and 7,000 females were noticed using inhalants and large number of males and females were addicts of cocaine, Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS) and Hallucinogens, the ministry informed the parliament, the report said.
However, reports suggest that the numbers might be much more than the figures pointed out by the ministry.
Drug abuse has become a major concern in the Kashmir Valley, with the number of drug addicts increasing significantly in recent years. According to reports, drug addiction affects a large number of people, including teenagers, young adults, and even older individuals. The issue has become a serious concern for the government and society as a whole.
There are several reasons for the rise of drug abuse in Kashmir. One of the main reasons is unemployment and poverty, which has led many people to turn to drugs as a way to escape their problems. Another factor is the easy availability of drugs, which has increased due to the porous borders with neighboring countries. Additionally, the ongoing conflict in the region has created a sense of hopelessness and despair among the people, leading them to seek solace in drugs.
Drug abuse has several negative impacts on individuals, families, and society. It can lead to physical and mental health problems, social isolation, financial difficulties, and criminal activities. It can also affect the development of children who grow up in households with drug-addicted parents.
To combat the problem of drug abuse, the government and NGOs have taken several measures, including awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and crackdowns on drug peddlers.
However, much more needs to be done to address the root causes of drug addiction and provide support and resources to those struggling with drug abuse.
