The Rising Tide of Drug Abuse Amongst Indian Youth: A Call for Thought, Planning and Action

Alarming Research Data

Drug abuse among the youth in India has seen a disturbing rise over the past decade. According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India, conducted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, approximately 14.6% of the population (aged 10-75) uses alcohol, 2.8% uses cannabis, and 2.1% uses opioids. Among them, a significant portion comprises youth under 25. This increase is not uniform across the country but shows significant variation from state to state.

States Severely Affected

Some states are grappling with this crisis more severely than others. Punjab, for instance, is notorious for its high incidence of drug abuse, particularly among young men. The state's geographic proximity to the opium-producing regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan has exacerbated the issue. In contrast, West Bengal and Manipur face different challenges. West Bengal's drug problem is largely influenced by its urban centres and proximity to international borders, while Manipur, part of the northeast 'golden triangle,' has high heroin use rates due to its location near Myanmar.

Divergent Underlying Reasons

The reasons for drug abuse vary significantly across these states. In Punjab, unemployment and socio-economic despair are major drivers. The agricultural sector's downturn and lack of industrialisation have left many young people without opportunities, turning to drugs as an escape. In contrast, West Bengal's issue is more urban-centric, with peer pressure, competitive stress, and accessibility in metropolitan areas being primary factors. Meanwhile, in Manipur, the socio-political unrest and insurgency have contributed to the rampant drug abuse, with narcotics being used as a means to cope with the trauma and instability.

Organised Crime and Drug Trafficking

The drug abuse crisis is intricately linked to organised crime. Drug trafficking and peddling are often push-sold, creating a cycle of dependency and criminality. However, law enforcement efforts tend to focus on petty peddlers and users rather than the traffickers who control the supply chains. This superficial approach fails to address the root of the problem, which is the organised crime network facilitating drug distribution. Comprehensive investigations targeting these networks are crucial for making significant inroads against drug abuse.

Gendered Issue

Drug abuse in India is also a gendered issue, predominantly affecting more boys and men than girls. Studies show that societal norms and expectations often push men towards substance use as a means of coping with stress and societal pressures. According to the same national survey, males are significantly more likely to use substances than females, with males constituting over 80% of the drug-using population.

Law Enforcement and Misplaced Focus

The response from law enforcement agencies has been mixed. In Punjab, the government launched the "Drug Abuse Prevention Officer (DAPO)" programme, aiming to engage the community in curbing drug abuse. However, implementation has been inconsistent, and corruption within the police force has hampered efforts. In states like West Bengal and Manipur, law enforcement faces challenges due to inadequate resources, political interference, and the complex socio-political environment. While there are efforts to curb the issue through stricter law enforcement and rehabilitation programmes, the problem persists due to systemic failures and lack of sustained effort.

Addressing Social Vulnerability

Addressing drug abuse requires tackling both social vulnerability factors and organised crime. Poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and family violence contribute to the social vulnerability that leads many youth to substance abuse. Social services and local governance need to focus more on these aspects to create a comprehensive support system for at-risk youth.

The rise of drug abuse among youth in India is a multifaceted issue requiring a nuanced approach. While law enforcement plays a crucial role, addressing the socio-economic factors and providing robust support systems are equally important. Efforts must be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each state, with a focus on preventive education, community involvement, and accessible rehabilitation services. By understanding the underlying reasons and addressing them comprehensively, India can hope to curb this growing menace and secure a healthier future for its youth.