The latest findings by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment shed light on a pressing issue: the rapid spread of drug addiction among young individuals in India. Titled "Drug abuse among young persons: Problems and solutions," the report delves into the growing concern of substance abuse across different age groups, including adults, young adults, and children.
The report reveals a shocking reality: drug abuse is increasingly prevalent among children aged 10-17 years. Opioids, sedatives, and inhalants are identified as the most common substances among young users in various states. The areas most affected include Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
According to the report, Punjab has a significant number of young individuals grappling with addiction. Approximately 6.97 lakh children aged 10-17 are reported to be using drugs. This includes 18,100 children consuming cocaine, 3.43 lakh using opioid drugs such as heroin, and 72,000 relying on inhalants.
In India, tobacco emerges as the most frequently used substance among school and college-going children, followed closely by alcohol, the report states.
The report highlights states with a notably high number of drug users, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
Addressing the challenge of drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach involving prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and awareness programs. The report underscores the necessity of implementing these strategies to mitigate the growing issue of addiction among young individuals in India.
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