Table of Contents
Introduction
India is among the most populous countries, with over 1.46 billion people. The country has a high potential for innovation and growth. But the rise of drug abuse over the recent years has been alarming, especially among youngsters. With the changing lifestyles, influence of western cultures, and easy access to drugs, the youth are falling prey to drug abuse. According to government data presented to the Supreme Court, over 1.58 crore children aged 10–17 years are addicted to psychoactive substances, with alcohol, cannabis, and opioids leading the list. These numbers draw attention to the urgent need for anti-drug campaigns, youth awareness programs, and strong social support systems to build a drug-free India.
The Need for ‘Say No to Drugs’ Campaigns
Drug abuse is a growing concern in India. Recent Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reports indicate that over 70% of drug users in India are younger than 35. The situation in Punjab is particularly severe, with approximately one in three households estimated to be affected by drug addiction. A 2019 National Survey on the Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India reported that 1.7% of children and adolescents are inhalant users, and nearly 8.5 lakh people inject drugs, with many in their teens or early twenties.
The results are not only limited to health concerns but extend to the increased crime rates, school dropouts, broken families, and loss of productivity. Campaigns like The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), aiming to promote a drug-free India, have reached more than 10.72 crore peopl,e including 3.38 crore youth, through awareness drives in over 3.28 lakh educational institutions, yet these efforts needs to be scaled up further to counter this growing wave of drug abuse.
Major Causes of Drug Addiction in Youth
Peer pressure
Peer pressure is one of the major drivers of early age use and addiction to drugs. Young adults are often pressured to fit in and experiment to gain social acceptance. This pressure is usually strong in college and nightlife.
Mental health issues
Stress, Anxiety, and depression drive young adults towards drugs as a coping mechanism. They use it as a form of temporary relief for this situation, neglecting the long-term issues these substances cause. A survey of injection drug–using adolescents found that nearly 60% reported sadness and anxiety linked to their substance use, and two-thirds felt life was difficult and stressful.
Lack of awareness
Young adults lack knowledge about the long-term harmful effects of these substances on the body. They are misled by societal misconceptions that using them once won’t cause any harm. Additionally, the portrayal of these products in movies and on social media contributes to addiction.
Role of Education and Awareness in Prevention
Education and awareness play a major role in making society drug-free. Since most of these people lack knowledge of the harmful side of taking these drugs. The National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), active since April 2018, funds state-level preventive education, peer-led interventions, and rehabilitation services through NGOs, hospitals, and Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs). Adding drug education modules in the school curriculum and having awareness sessions regularly can empower students with knowledge so they can say NO to drugs.
Success Stories of Drug Rehabilitation in India
Numerous NGOs and Government programs have numerous success stories that show recovery is possible with devoted sweats, provocation, and structured programs:
- Ladli Foundation’s JOSH program, in collaboration with Delhi Police, has diverted over 1,100 at-risk boys from medicines and crime through sports mentorship and comforting.
- DEPTH – The Path to Drug Addiction Rehabilitation by Dera Sacha Sauda has helped over 7 crore people celebrate freedom from medicines in lower than a week. DEPTH focuses on tone-commission for a medicine-free life, without counting on drug.
- Under the NMBA, 342 IRCAs provide detoxification, motivational comforting, and social reintegration services, while 47 Community-grounded Peer-Led Intervention (CPLI) centers engage adolescents in life-skills workshops.
How Youth Can Take a Stand
Social media movements
Social media is a powerful channel in today’s age. It can be used to spread awareness, conduct movements, and build supportive online communities, which can help eradicate drug consumption among youngsters.
Peer support
Forming groups helps sustain peer accountability. Trained peer educators can hold sessions, listen, and empathize with youngsters. Creating a supportive environment and motivating people makes things easier for people to say no to drugs.
Volunteering in awareness drives
By participating in anti-drug campaigns organized by the government and NGOs, individuals can help create a significant impact on society. Young people can perform skits, rallies, and street plays to educate their communities about the harmful effects of drug consumption.
Government and Celebrity Support for the Campaign
The Indian government has taken several initiatives, like the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and helpline numbers, to assist drug users. Many celebrities and spiritual leaders have also taken the initiative to create a drug-free society and encourage early help-seeking.
Conclusion
Building a drug-free future for Indians is not the responsibility of a single person; it requires a collective effort. The government, policymakers, parents, teachers, celebrities, influencers, and most importantly, the youth, must come together to raise awareness and eliminate this demon from society. By promoting drug-free lifestyles, investing in education and mental health, and encouraging open dialogue, we can pave the way for a drug-free India. The journey is tough, but with awareness, compassion, and action, we can ensure our youth live free from the chains of addiction.
