Caught in the Middle: India’s Battle with Drug Abuse
Hi Readers!
As a citizen of India, we should know that our country is situated between the drug-producing regions known as the Golden Triangle and the Golden Crescent and we find ourselves grappling with a significant drug abuse problem. This article aims to throw light on the challenges India faces in combating drug abuse.
But as reader a question is arising in your mind that why suddenly we are taking about the drug abuse?
Well reader, today is June 26th, every year on this date the globe come on one platform to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This day gives us, as a reminder of the menacing global issue of substance abuse and illegal drug abuse. In the Indian context, the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is a huge challenge that requires a 360-degree approach.
Magnitude of the Problem: Drug abuse has emerged as a major public health issue in India. According to reports, there are approximately 8-10 million drug addicts in the country and this number continues to rise. The problem is not limited to a any specific region, demographic or religion. It affects individuals from various age groups, socio-economic backgrounds and geographical locations.
The Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent
The Golden Triangle is the region include parts of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand known for the cultivation and production of illicit drugs, particularly opium. The Golden Crescent, on the other hand, consists of Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, and is renowned for its opium poppy cultivation, heroin production, and drug trafficking routes. Golden Triangle and the Golden Crescent gave a serious blow to India as the inflow of illicit drugs take place though these routes. Smugglers and traffickers take advantage of porous borders and transportation networks to transport drugs through India to domestic and international markets. The drug abuse problem fueled by the Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent has far-reaching consequences for Indian society
Youth vulnerability: India’s large youth population is particularly vulnerable to drug abuse. Factors such as peer pressure, lack of awareness, unemployment and curious mind of youngsters forced them to experimenting with drugs, putting their physical and mental health on a grave risk.
India finds itself sandwiched between the drug-producing regions of the Golden Triangle and the Golden Crescent, resulting in an increasing drug abuse problem within its land. The proximity to these regions poses unique challenges in terms of drug availability, accessibility and transit. However Indian government, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and NGOs is actively working to fight the menace of drug abuse.
The drug abuse problem in India poses significant challenges to public health, societal well-being and the country’s overall development. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that combines strict law enforcement, prevention initiatives, treatment services and community engagement. By fostering collaboration, raising public awareness especially among youth and investing in right education to youth at right time, India can work towards mitigating the impact of drug abuse and creating a healthier, drug-free society for its beloved citizens.
Written by: Mohd. Talib Khan
