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| Wakeup Call | | | Union Health Ministry recently acknowledged that drug addiction is on rise in Jammu and Kashmir and it can have serious repercussions. The ministry has sounded an alarm and people need to wakeup before it’s too late.
The Ministry informed the Parliament that National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru is conducting a survey to generate updated data on mental health disorders among adolescents aged 13-17 years and adults aged 18 years and above. Pertinently, the Union Territory has been witnessing growing concern over substance abuse, particularly among the youth, with health experts repeatedly warning that drug addiction is emerging as one of the most serious public health challenges in the region. The recently concluded 100-day Nasha Mukt J&K campaign, spearheaded by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, deserves recognition for bringing the issue into the public spotlight. The campaign mobilised government departments, educational institutions, civil society organisations and law enforcement agencies to spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. At the same time, police intensified their crackdown on drug traffickers, arresting numerous peddlers and demolishing properties allegedly acquired through the proceeds of the narcotics trade. Such actions send a strong message that the administration is determined to dismantle the drug supply network.
However, enforcement alone cannot solve the problem. Arresting peddlers may disrupt supply, but unless the demand for drugs is reduced through sustained prevention and rehabilitation efforts, the cycle will continue. Drug addiction is fundamentally a health issue requiring compassion, treatment and long-term support. Every addicted individual should be viewed as someone needing medical and psychological care.
Schools and colleges must become the first line of defence against addiction. Regular awareness programmes, mental health counselling, life-skills education and early identification of vulnerable students can prevent experimentation from turning into dependency. Parents, too, have a critical role in maintaining open communication with their children and recognising behavioural changes before addiction takes hold.
Equally important is the creation of opportunities for young people. Employment, sports, cultural activities and skill development provide meaningful alternatives that keep youth engaged and hopeful about the future. |
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